Method and system for secure communication and authorization of vehicle mode changes

Abstract

An electrically powered accessory connected to a vehicle power system is authenticated, and the connection between the accessory and the vehicle power system is authorized based on the authentication. The accessory may provide authentication information associated with an authentication level, and a connection is permitted based on the authentication level. The vehicle power system may obtain the authentication information, obtain the authentication level, and operate the power connection based on the authentication level. The authentication information may be obtained from the component or from a user of the component via, for example, a portable device. The system may include an electrically powered component and a vehicle power system. The system may also include a remote server to process the authentication information and determine the authentication level.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicle power systems and electric vehicle accessories, and more particularly, to authenticating an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to draw power from the vehicle power system. Background Art

[0002] Internal combustion engine-powered vehicles can use a power take-off (PTO) to provide power to auxiliary accessories, such as various tools, climate control systems, etc. The PTO directs mechanical energy to the auxiliary components. The power take-off can use a specific physical interface between the vehicle and the component to ensure that only authorized accessories are used. In addition, the mechanical design of the PTO, such as the clutch, differential, etc., can limit the risk to the vehicle engine and powertrain. In traditional PTOs in internal combustion engine vehicles, the engine must be in use to provide power. This also reduces the risk of unauthorized access to available power from the PTO due to the presence of an operator.

[0003] Electrical accessories typically use standard power connections or connections that can be easily physically simulated. Furthermore, allowing electrical connection to unauthorized devices may allow theft, illegal intrusion, or damage to the vehicle's electrical system accessories due to incompatibility or defects such as faults in the devices connected to the power connections. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates to vehicle power systems and electric vehicle accessories, and more particularly, to authenticating an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to draw power from the vehicle power system.

[0005] The verification system allows electrical connections to be provided on a vehicle while reducing or eliminating the risk of unauthorized third parties gaining access to power or connecting faulty or incompatible devices. The verification system can use multiple levels of authorization to allow, for example, the installation of accessories into the vehicle power system or to override modes such as vehicle-off or load-shedding conditions to provide power to verified components. The verified components can be accessories such as a transportation climate control system that includes an electric compressor and at least one electric fan.

[0006] In one embodiment, a vehicle power and accessory system includes an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container, and a vehicle power system. The vehicle power system includes a battery, an electrical connection point, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container, and direct operation of the electrical connection point based on an authentication level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container. The electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container is connected to the electrical connection point. The authentication level is based on the authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container.

[0007] In one embodiment, a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container includes a wired connection to the vehicle's power system, and a controller is configured to receive authentication information from the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container via the wired connection.

[0008] In one embodiment, the vehicle power system includes a wireless communication receiver, and the controller is configured to receive verification information from the wireless communication receiver.

[0009] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to determine an authentication level based on the authentication information.

[0010] In one embodiment, the vehicle power system includes a wireless communication antenna, and the controller is further configured to direct transmission of verification information to the remote server via the wireless communication antenna and receive the verification level from the remote server.

[0011] In one embodiment, operation of the electrical connection point includes supplying power from the battery to a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the transport container when the vehicle power and accessory system is in a vehicle stop mode.

[0012] In one embodiment, operation of the electrical connection point includes supplying power to an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the transport container when the vehicle power and accessory system is in a load shedding mode.

[0013] In one embodiment, operation of the electrical connection point includes authenticating a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container for use in the vehicle power and accessory system.

[0014] In one embodiment, a vehicle power system includes: a battery; an electrical connection point configured to provide power to an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container; and a controller. The controller is configured to: obtain authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container; obtain an authentication level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container; and direct a connection operation between the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container based on the authentication level of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container.

[0015] In one embodiment, the connecting operation includes supplying power from the vehicle electrical system to the electrical connection point. In one embodiment, supplying power from the vehicle electrical system to the electrical connection point occurs when the vehicle including the vehicle electrical power source is at a stop.

[0016] In one embodiment, the connection operation includes: authenticating an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container as being for use with the vehicle electrical system; and allowing connection between the vehicle electrical system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container at an electrical connection point.

[0017] In one embodiment, the vehicle power system further includes a wireless communication antenna, and the processor is configured to obtain the authentication information by receiving authentication data from the wireless communication antenna.

[0018] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to obtain authentication information via a wired connection between the vehicle power system and a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container.

[0019] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to obtain an authentication level for an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the transport container by processing authentication information from the vehicle power system to determine the authentication level.

[0020] In one embodiment, the vehicle power system further includes a wireless communication antenna. The controller is configured to obtain a verification level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the transport container by directing transmission of verification information from the vehicle power system to a remote server via the wireless communication antenna; and receiving the verification level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the transport container from the remote server via the wireless communication antenna.

[0021] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to: monitor the vehicle power system for unauthorized access attempts; and disable at least a portion of the vehicle power system when the monitoring detects an unauthorized access attempt.

[0022] In one embodiment, a method for connecting an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to a vehicle power system includes providing authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container to a vehicle power control device of the vehicle power system; and forming a permitted connection selected from a plurality of permitted connections between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container and the vehicle power system. The permitted connection is selected based on an authentication level. The authentication information determines an authentication level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container.

[0023] In one embodiment, providing the authentication information includes providing a signal including the authentication information via a wired connection configured to connect to a vehicle power system.

[0024] In one embodiment, providing authentication information includes wirelessly transmitting authentication information from a portable device or a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container to the vehicle power system. Allowing connection includes receiving power from the vehicle power system to the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container.

[0025] In one embodiment, receiving power from a vehicle power system by an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container occurs while a vehicle including a vehicle power source is at a stop.

[0026] In one embodiment, receiving power from the vehicle power system by an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container occurs while the vehicle power source is in a load dump condition.

[0027] In one embodiment, providing authentication information includes providing authentication information from the maintenance tool to the vehicle power system, and allowing connection includes authenticating that the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container is for use in the vehicle power system.

[0028] In one embodiment, the enabling connection is established at a power output of the vehicle's power system.

[0029] In one embodiment, a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is a transportation climate control system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for verifying a connection between a vehicle power system and an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is shown according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 2 A hierarchy of authentication levels is shown according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 3 A method of connecting an electrically powered component to a vehicle electrical system is shown according to one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 4 A method of authenticating a component connected to a vehicle power system is shown according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The present disclosure relates to vehicle power systems and electric vehicle accessories, and more particularly, to authenticating electric accessories configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to draw power from the vehicle power system.

[0035] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system 100 for verifying a connection between a vehicle power system 102 and a powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is shown, according to one embodiment.

[0036] The vehicle power system 102 is an electrical power system included in a vehicle, such as a tractor-trailer, a single-unit truck, a van, a bus, etc. The vehicle including the vehicle power system 102 may be, for example, a hybrid electric and internal combustion engine vehicle or a pure electric vehicle.

[0037] The vehicle power system 102 includes an onboard charger 106, a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) 108, a power distribution unit (PDU) 110, and an electrical connection point 112. The vehicle power system 102 also includes a controller 114. Optionally, the vehicle power system 102 includes a wireless communication antenna 116 operatively connected to the controller 114 to allow communication with the controller 114 via the wireless communication antenna 116.

[0038] The onboard charger 106 is a charger for the RESS 108 included in the vehicle electrical system 102. The onboard charger 106 may be connected to, for example, a shore power connection, an alternator of a prime mover (such as an internal combustion engine or a hybrid engine), or any other suitable power source applicable to charging the RESS 108.

[0039] The RESS 108 may include one or more rechargeable batteries configured to be charged by an onboard charger 106 and to supply power to the vehicle power system 102, for example, via a PDU 110. The RESS 108 may provide power to electrical connection points 112 included in the vehicle power system 102. The RESS 108 may include, for example, a battery management system to control the operation of the RESS, such as charging, temperature management, etc., and to determine and / or communicate a status of the RESS, such as the state of charge of one or more batteries of the RESS 108.

[0040] The PDU 110 is a system that distributes power among various loads located on or included in the vehicle power system 102. The PDU 110 is connected to the RESS 108 so that the PDU 110 can draw power from the RESS 108 and then supply power to the loads connected to the PDU 110. One or more loads located on or included in the vehicle power system 102 connected to the PDU 110 include an electrical connection point 112 and may also include one or more vehicle components and / or vehicle accessories. The PDU 110 can provide power as DC power or AC power. The power provided by the PDU 110 can have a fixed voltage and / or frequency or a controllable voltage and / or controllable frequency.

[0041] One of the multiple loads that is supplied with power from the vehicle power system 102, for example, via the PDU 110, is an electrical connection point 112. The electrical connection point 112 may be an interface that allows an electrically powered accessory, such as an electrically powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container, to connect to the vehicle power system 102 and receive power from the vehicle power system 102. The interface for transmitting power to the electrically powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container may be, for example, a receptacle, a cable, one or more conductive prongs, one or more plugs, or any other suitable form of electrical connection. The electrical connection point 112 may also include a load monitor configured to measure at least one of a voltage, a current, or a frequency of the power supplied at the electrical connection point 112. The electrical connection point 112 may be located at or on the exterior of the vehicle that includes the vehicle power system 102. The electrical connection point 112 may be located at an electrically powered take-off (ePTO) device provided on the vehicle that includes the vehicle power system 102. The electrical connection points 112 may include connections that allow for a wired connection capable of transmitting authentication information from a powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to the vehicle power system 102 .

[0042] The controller 114 is a controller configured to control at least the power supply provided at the electrical connection point 112. In one embodiment, the controller 114 is configured to obtain authentication information, obtain an authentication level, and direct a connection operation.

[0043] The controller 114 may obtain the authentication information from, for example, a wired connection formed at the electrical connection 112. The controller 114 may obtain the authentication information from other physical connections that provide authentication data, such as a human-machine interface (HMI) 132 or a machine-to-machine interface 134. The controller 114 may obtain the authentication information from, for example, a wireless connection to a remote server 120 and / or one or more portable devices, such as a key fob 122, a mobile phone 124, and / or a maintenance tool 126, from a wireless communication antenna 116.

[0044] In one embodiment, the controller 114 may obtain the verification level for the obtained verification information, for example, by directly processing the verification information at the controller 114 itself to determine the verification level. In one embodiment, the controller 114 may direct the wireless communication antenna 116 to transmit the verification information to, for example, a remote server 120, and subsequently receive the verification level associated with the transmitted verification information determined by the remote server 120. The controller 114 may direct the connection operation by, for example, directing the PDU 110 to supply power to the electrical connection 112. The controller 114 may also be configured to terminate the power supply and / or require subsequent verification for further power supply from the PDU 110 to the electrical connection 112. When receiving power from the PDU 110, the electrical connection 112 may in turn supply power to the electric accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container.

[0045] Optionally, the vehicle power system 102 includes a wireless communication antenna 116 operatively connected to the controller 114 to allow communications to and from the controller 114 via the wireless communication antenna 116 .

[0046] In one embodiment, the wireless communication antenna 116 provides direct communication with the remote server 120, for example, via a wireless mobile Internet connection, or provides communication with the remote server 120 via one or more additional devices (such as a mobile phone or tablet of the vehicle driver). In this embodiment, the wireless communication antenna 116 can send information including the authentication information obtained by the controller 114 to the remote server 120, and can receive information from the remote server 120 including, for example, an authentication level determined at the remote server 120 based on the authentication information.

[0047] In one embodiment, the wireless communication antenna 116 may be a wireless communication antenna configured to connect to one or more nearby portable devices. In this embodiment, the wireless communication antenna 116 may be connected to the portable devices via, for example, wireless local area network (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, ZigBee, near field communication (NFC), radio frequency identification (RFID), or any other suitable wireless connection to the one or more portable devices. The one or more portable devices may include, for example, a key fob 122, a mobile phone 124, and / or a maintenance tool 126.

[0048] In one embodiment, a switch or other HMI 132 may be located in the cab of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the HMI 132 may be used to allow a user (such as a driver of the vehicle) to activate or deactivate the electrical connection point 112. In one embodiment, the HMI 132 may be used to activate or deactivate a verification process performed at least in part by the controller 114. In one embodiment, the HMI 132 may be used to allow the user to enter or otherwise provide at least a portion of the verification information. In one embodiment, the HMI 132 may query the user for verification required to change the vehicle power system 102 (such as to install or modify a component of the vehicle power system 102, or to draw power from an electric accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container), for example, by displaying a prompt on a display requesting verification. In one embodiment, the level of verification required to change the vehicle power system 102 may be included in the displayed prompt.

[0049] In one embodiment, a physical machine-to-machine interface 134 may be included in the vehicle power system 102. The machine-to-machine interface 134 may be, for example, a port configured to accept a maintenance tool (such as the maintenance tool 126) and form a wired connection for exchanging data, such as maintenance logs, status information of the vehicle power system 102, and / or authentication information, such as authentication information required by a person carrying the maintenance tool 126 during installation or maintenance for a powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container. In one embodiment, the maintenance tool 126 includes a hardware-based key, such as a HASP key. In one embodiment, the hardware-based key is required to access a specific level of authority, such as an integrator or OEM level of authority.

[0050] Powered accessories 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container are accessory loads to be used with a vehicle including vehicle power system 102. Powered accessories 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container are configured to connect to and receive power from vehicle power system 102. Powered accessories 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container may be, for example, powered equipment such as a compressor, a pump, an agitator, or any other suitable powered equipment compatible with power from electrical connection point 112.

[0051] In one embodiment, the electric accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is a transport climate control system associated with a space included in the vehicle, on the trailer, or in the shipping container. The electric transport climate control system may include one or more electric compressors and one or more electric evaporator fans. The transport climate control system may include additional electric components such as an electronic expansion valve, a controller, a charger for one or more onboard batteries of the transport climate control system, and the like.

[0052] In other embodiments, the electric accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container can be, for example, a crane attached to a vehicle, a cement mixer attached to a truck, one or more food utensils of a fast food truck, a telescopic arm attached to a vehicle, a concrete pump truck, a garbage truck, a fire truck (with an electric ladder, pump, lights, etc.), suitable combinations thereof, and the like.

[0053] Even when the vehicle's ignition is turned off or the vehicle is parked, idling, charging, or a combination thereof, the powered accessories 104 configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container may require continuous power. Independent of the vehicle's operating mode, the accessory electrical components may require significant amounts of power to operate, operate continuously, operate autonomously as needed (e.g., to control temperature / humidity / airflow in a climate-controlled space), or a combination thereof.

[0054] In one embodiment, the powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container includes an electrical interface 118 configured to interface with the electrical connection point 112 of the vehicle power system 102. The electrical interface can be any suitable interface for connecting with the electrical connection point 112, such as a plug corresponding to an outlet, vice versa, or any other suitable electrical interface.

[0055] In one embodiment, the electrical interface 118 includes a wired communication line 128 configured to connect to the vehicle power system 102 to provide authentication information for the powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container.

[0056] In one embodiment, a powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container includes an accessory wireless antenna 130. The accessory wireless antenna can be configured to provide a wireless connection to one or more of the vehicle power system 102, a remote server 120, and / or a portable device (such as a key fob 122, a mobile phone 124, or a maintenance tool 126). The wireless connection can be, for example, a wireless data connection (such as 4G, LTE, etc.), a wireless local area network (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, ZigBee, near-field communication (NFC), radio frequency identification (RFID), or any other suitable wireless connection based on the communicating devices. In one embodiment, the accessory wireless antenna 130 transmits authentication information from the powered accessory 104 configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container to the vehicle power system 102. In one embodiment, the accessory wireless antenna 130 receives at least a portion of the authentication information from the remote server 120 and / or the portable device (such as the key fob 122, the mobile phone 124, or the maintenance tool 126). In one embodiment, the accessory wireless antenna transmits at least a portion of the authentication information to a remote server 120 and / or a portable device (such as a key fob 122 , mobile phone 124 , or maintenance tool 126 ).

[0057] Figure 2 A hierarchy 200 of verification levels is shown according to an embodiment. The hierarchy 200 may include multiple levels of verification that govern permitted connections between a vehicle power system and an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container. The hierarchy may include an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) 202 of the vehicle power system, an integrator 204, an accessory supplier 206, a fleet operator 208, a unit operator 210, and a driver 212. The position of an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container within the hierarchy 200 may be based on the source of the component, the party performing the installation of the component, or the party connecting the component to the vehicle power system.

[0058] OEM 202 is the original manufacturer of the vehicle's electrical system. Electric vehicle accessories from OEM 202, installed by OEM 202, or maintained by OEM 202 that are configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container may be known or assumed to be compatible with and verified for use with the vehicle's electrical system. OEM 202 may also be a service provider for maintenance, repair, and replacement of these accessories. In one embodiment, a component is identified as having OEM 202-level verification based on the component being identified as coming from OEM 202, such as by an identifier code included in the verification information. In one embodiment, a component is identified as having OEM 202-level verification based on a verification information source, such as by a maintenance tool or other portable device (such as a mobile device, a key fob, or other such suitable verification information source). The verification information provided by the source may be provided, for example, during a maintenance or replacement operation involving the component. OEM202 level certification can allow, for example, full access of the component to the functionality of the vehicle power system (including control and authentication of accessories for future use without additional certification); the ability to draw power from the vehicle power system regardless of the state of the vehicle power system; or the ability to draw power from the vehicle power system subject to the state of the vehicle power system.

[0059] Integrators 204 are parties that integrate third-party electric accessories configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, trailer, and shipping container with accessories from OEMs 202, including, for example, installation, construction, repair, and maintenance of the integrated system. Accessories may be identified as having integrator-level authentication via authentication information provided by a source, such as a maintenance tool or other portable device (such as a mobile device, key fob, or other such suitable authentication information source) during the integration process. The authentication information provided by the source may be provided, for example, during operations involving installation, maintenance, or replacement of the component. Integrator 204-level authentication may allow, for example, the accessory to be authenticated for future use without additional authentication, to draw power from the vehicle power system regardless of the state of the vehicle power system, or to draw power from the vehicle power system subject to the state of the vehicle power system. In one embodiment, integrator 204-level authorization may include changing a component from being registered to one vehicle to being registered to another vehicle. In one embodiment, integrator 204-level authorization may include modifying one or more operating parameters of the vehicle power system, such as the vehicle power system 102 described above, to support the accessory connected by integrator 204. In one embodiment, the modification of one or more operating parameters includes changing the voltage and / or frequency of power supplied to the accessory. In one embodiment, the modification of one or more operating parameters includes changing when power is made available, for example, allowing the accessory to be powered by the vehicle power system during an inactive or stopped state of the vehicle.

[0060] Accessory vendors 206 are parties that supply, install, maintain, and / or repair third-party accessories for use with or in conjunction with the vehicle's electrical system. In one embodiment, an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is identified as having accessory vendor 206-level authentication based on the part being identified as originating from accessory vendor 206, for example, via an identifier code included in authentication information. In one embodiment, the part is identified as having accessory vendor 206-level authentication based on a source of authentication information, for example, via a maintenance tool or other portable device (such as a mobile device, a key fob, or other such suitable authentication information source). The authentication information provided by the source can be provided, for example, during maintenance or replacement operations involving the part. Accessory vendor 206-level authentication can allow, for example, the accessory to be authenticated for future use without additional authentication, to draw power from the vehicle's electrical system regardless of the state of the vehicle's electrical system, or to draw power from the vehicle's electrical system subject to the state of the vehicle's electrical system.

[0061] Fleet operator 208 is the owner and operator of multiple vehicles. In one embodiment, components are identified as having fleet operator 208-level authentication based on, for example, instructions or partial instructions from fleet management software, or specifically authentication information associated with fleet operator 208 provided via a maintenance tool or other portable device (such as a mobile device, key fob, or other suitable authentication information source). Fleet operator 208, as the owner of the vehicle and accessory components, can be provided with broad permissions regarding permitted connections. Fleet operator 208-level authentication may allow, for example, full access to the functionality of the vehicle's power system (including control and authentication of accessories for future use without additional authentication); access to power from the vehicle's power system regardless of its state; or access to power from the vehicle's power system subject to its state. Certain activities permitted to fleet operator 208 may be associated with warranty violations. In one embodiment, activities in this category (e.g., authenticating unapproved parts) may result in the vehicle's power system or the vehicle itself being flagged as being in violation of the warranty. In one embodiment, actions that may be taken by the fleet operator 208 in connection with a warranty violation may require a prompt or confirmation before the action is performed.

[0062] Unit operator 210 may include the owner of a vehicle or one of a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container. For example, unit operator 210 may include the owner-operator of the vehicle, the owner and operator of a vehicle accessory, such as the owner of a shipping container that includes a transport climate control system. Unit operator 210-level authentication may be provided via one or more portable devices (such as a mobile device, a key fob, or other such suitable authentication information source), switches or other human-machine interfaces included on or in the vehicle, or switches or other human-machine interfaces on the accessory itself, such as via a wired or wireless connection upon connection. Unit operator 210-level authentication may allow, for example, the accessory to be authenticated for future use without requiring additional authentication, the ability to draw power from the vehicle power system regardless of the state of the vehicle power system (such as load shedding mode, range-extending mode, stopped or inactive mode, etc.), or the ability to draw power from the vehicle power system subject to the state of the vehicle power system. In one embodiment, verification at the unit operator 210 level allows for prioritization of loads on the vehicle's electrical system, such as giving transport climate control systems priority over vehicle operation to ensure protection of climate-sensitive loads. Certain activities permitted by the unit operator 210 may be associated with warranty violations. In one embodiment, activities in this category, such as certifying unapproved parts, may result in the vehicle's electrical system or the vehicle itself being flagged as being in violation of warranty.

[0063] Driver 212 includes the operator of a vehicle including a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container. In one embodiment, verification of driver 212's level can be provided based on a verification information source, a portable device (such as a mobile device, a key fob, or other such suitable verification information source), a switch or other HMI included on or in the vehicle, or a switch or other HMI on the accessory itself, such as provided via a wired or wireless connection when connected. Verification of driver 212's level can allow, for example, drawing power from the vehicle's power system regardless of the state of the vehicle's power system, or drawing power from the vehicle's power system subject to the state of the vehicle's power system.

[0064] In one embodiment, the levels may be arranged in layers, such as level 0 including OEM 202 , level 1 including integrator 204 , level 2 including accessory supplier 206 , and level 3 including fleet operator 208 , unit operator 210 , and driver 212 .

[0065] Level 0 may be the most comprehensive level of authentication, where the least restrictive set of allowed connections may be formed. Figure 2 In the hierarchy shown, level 0 includes OEM 202 .

[0066] Level 1 may be a second layer of authentication that is more restrictive than Level 0 but includes a larger set of allowed connections than lower levels. Figure 2 In the hierarchy shown, level 1 includes integrator 204 .

[0067] Level 2 may be a third tier of validation that is more restrictive than Level 1 but may include a larger set of allowed connections than Level 3, or have allowed connections that are exempt from warranty impact. Figure 2 In the hierarchy shown, level 2 includes accessory supplier 206 .

[0068] Level 3 may be the final level of validation. Level 3 may include the most restrictive set of allowed connections. Alternatively, Level 3 may include a broader set of allowed connections, but certain allowed connections may carry flags that indicate a warranty violation for the vehicle's electrical system, an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container, or other such component based on the connection pattern when compared to validation data. Figure 2 In the hierarchy shown, level 3 includes fleet operators 208 , unit operators 210 , and drivers 212 .

[0069] Within each level, there may be further tiers of allowed connections or authentication methods. For example, while fleet operators 208, unit operators 210, and drivers 212 may each be included in level 3 of the hierarchy, the allowed connections available to each individual group may vary individually by specific authentication level (e.g., fleet operators 208 or unit operators 210 may include allowed connections with warranty implications, while those connections are prohibited for drivers 212).

[0070] Hierarchies can also be used to resolve conflicts between multiple members of the same hierarchy. For example, within hierarchy 3, fleet operator 208 can take precedence over driver 212 in the event of a conflict, and vice versa. An example of a conflict might be allowing a connection to override a vehicle's load shedding mode to continue supplying power to, for example, a transport climate control unit. In the event of conflicting instructions regarding allowing a connection, the validation level of each instruction can be compared and a selected instruction can be selected based on one or more predetermined conflict rules.

[0071] Figure 3 A method for connecting an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to a vehicle power system is shown according to one embodiment. The method 300 includes providing verification information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container at 302, and forming an allowed connection selected from a plurality of allowed connections at 304. Optionally, the method 300 includes ending a verification period for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container at 306.

[0072] At 302, authentication information is provided. The authentication information is information associated with an authentication level (e.g., the authentication level provided in the hierarchy 200 described above) for operation of an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container. The authentication information can be provided at 302 by the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container, or by another authentication information source. Authentication information sources include, for example, a key fob; a mobile device (such as a cellular phone or tablet); a remote server (such as a server of an enterprise system, a fleet management software system, an authentication server, etc.); a maintenance tool; a wired connection between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container and the vehicle's power system; a wireless connection between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container and the vehicle's power system; and the like.

[0073] The verification information may include comparing the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container with a verification level (such as in Figure 2 The authentication information may include information associated with one of the authentication levels provided in the hierarchical structure 200 described above and shown in FIG. The authentication information may include a device identifier that categorizes the electric accessory configured for use with the at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container, or provides a specific identification, such as a model number or individual serial number for the accessory. In one embodiment, the authentication information includes status data for the electric accessory configured for use with the at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container, such as a maintenance log, a service log, a fault log, or other such information related to the status and performance of the electric accessory.

[0074] The verification information provided at 302 can be protected by one or more techniques including being provided on a wired connection, encrypting communications, using multiple sources for verification information, or using blockchain technology. Using a wired connection to protect the provision of verification information can include using a dedicated connector that provides mechanical specificity to the connection providing the verification information. The use of a wired connection can provide verification information via an electrical connection between the vehicle power system and an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container to prevent counterfeit mechanical components. Encryption of communications can include encryption at one or more of the communication layer, the software layer, or the hardware layer (such as an on-board chip dedicated to encryption and decryption of verification information on the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container). Multiple verification sources can be used, such as a multi-factor authentication security architecture that uses one or more secondary verification information sources to confirm or supplement the verification information provided by the first verification information source. Each of the primary authentication source and the secondary authentication source can be a suitable authentication information source disclosed herein, including but not limited to the following examples: a key fob; a mobile device; a remote server; a maintenance tool; a wired connection between an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container and the vehicle's power system; a wireless connection between an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container and the vehicle's power system, etc. In one embodiment, one or more secondary authentication information sources are associated with a level of authentication required for the requested permitted connection. For example, secondary authentication information can be requested from an integrator to form a permitted connection requiring integrator-level authentication, even if the initial request was made using a lower level of authentication.

[0075] In one embodiment, the verification information provided at 302 may be logged, for example, by being added to a record. This record may utilize a unique, independently verifiable, and / or immutable record for each moment the verification information is provided. The record may include, for example, a token, an entry in an authorization tracking database, or an entry on a blockchain ledger. In one embodiment, the record includes the time and / or location at which the verification information was provided at 302. In one embodiment, the record includes the vehicle identification number (VIN), the ID numbers of one or more accessories to be connected by allowing the connection, the OEM or dealer providing the vehicle and / or accessories, the owner of the vehicle and / or accessories, etc. In one embodiment, the authorization tracking database is stored in a memory on a remote server or in cloud storage. In one embodiment, the record includes the allowed connection associated with the provision of the verification information at 302. In one embodiment, the record includes the event that triggered the provision of the verification information at 302, such as a condition that resulted in the user being asked for verification information. In one embodiment, the record includes the verification level associated with the verification information provided at 302 and / or the verification level associated with the allowed connection to be formed at 304.

[0076] At 304, an allowed connection is formed. The allowed connection can be one of a plurality of allowed connections of the hierarchy 200 described above, for example, selected based on the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container being connected and the authentication level associated with the authentication information provided at 302. The allowed connection can include one or more of the following: full access to the functionality of the vehicle power system for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container, including control and authentication of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container for future use without additional authentication; the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container can draw power from the vehicle power system regardless of the state of the vehicle power system; or the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container draws power from the vehicle power system subject to the state of the vehicle power system. In one embodiment, the allowed connection formed at 304 is a change in the operating mode of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container. The change in operating mode can be a change that affects the power draw of an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container. The change in operating mode can be, for example, changing a transport climate control system from a standby mode to a temperature drop mode. In one embodiment, the enabling connection formed at 304 is formed at an electrical connection point included in the vehicle's power system.

[0077] In one embodiment, forming the permitted connection at 304 may further include attaching a tag or identifier to the connection of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container. Attachment of the tag or identifier may be based on the level of verification and the permitted connection. For example, if the permitted connection formed at 304 is between unapproved components, but the permitted connection is permitted due to a level of verification (e.g., a fleet operator level or a unit operator level), the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container may store the identifier in a memory that logs the connection. The log of the connection may indicate, for example, that a warranty rule has been violated.

[0078] Optionally, method 300 includes terminating the permitted connection established at 304 based on a condition in one or both of an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container and the vehicle's power system at 306. In one embodiment, the permitted connection may be terminated at 306 when the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container is disconnected from the vehicle's power system, for example, when the accessory fails authentication and is disconnected. In one embodiment, the permitted connection established at 304 may be specific to the operating mode of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container, and may be terminated at 306 when the operating mode of the accessory changes. In one embodiment, the permitted connection established at 304 may be limited or overridden by the vehicle's mode or state, such as when the vehicle's power system enters a load shedding mode or a range extension mode. In this embodiment, the vehicle's mode may trigger the termination of the permitted connection at 306. In one embodiment, allowing the connection may be terminated at 306 periodically, on a schedule, or after a predetermined time such that verification of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container is periodically repeated.

[0079] Figure 4 Authentication of an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container being connected to a vehicle power system is illustrated, according to one embodiment. The authentication method includes obtaining authentication information for a component at 402; obtaining an authentication level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container at 404; and directing a connection operation between the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container at 406. Optionally, method 400 also includes monitoring for unauthorized access attempts at 408. Optionally, method 400 may also include disabling access to power at 410.

[0080] At 402, authentication information for an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is obtained. The authentication information may be obtained at or near the vehicle, such as from a wired connection, a key fob, or an HMI on the vehicle, or remotely (such as from a server, a mobile device, etc.). A remote authentication information source may allow authentication and operation of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container while the driver is away from the vehicle. As non-limiting examples, the authentication information may be obtained via one or more of the following: a key fob, using an HMI or switch located in or on the vehicle, a mobile device (such as a mobile phone, a tablet, etc.), a remote server, a maintenance tool, a wired connection between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container and the vehicle's power system, a wireless connection between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container and the vehicle's power system, etc. The authentication information is information that associates the connection of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container with an authentication level for the connection. In one embodiment, the verification information obtained at 402 includes status data for an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container, such as a maintenance log, a service log, a fault record, or other such information relating to the status and performance of the electric accessory.

[0081] A validation level for an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is obtained at 404. The validation level is a validation level for the connection of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to the vehicle's electrical system, e.g., as in Figure 2 One of the above verification levels shown in .

[0082] Optionally, obtaining a verification level for an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container at 404 includes processing the verification information obtained at 402 to determine the verification level. The verification information is associated with the verification level, and the association may be determined by processing at a controller included in the vehicle power system. The verification information may, for example, include: a code identifying the verification level; a code identifying the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container, which code may be cross-referenced with a table of approved devices; a code identifying an installer or user, etc.; or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, processing the verification information includes comparing the verification information to a table of codes that directly correspond to the verification levels. In one embodiment, processing the verification information includes comparing the verification information to a table of device identifiers and associated verification levels for the identified devices. In one embodiment, processing the verification information includes combining a first source of verification information with a second source of verification information, and comparing the combined verification information to a code that directly corresponds to the verification level.

[0083] Processing the verification information may also include processing status data, such as processing status data to determine whether an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container is in a properly operating condition. In one embodiment, processing the status data may include determining that the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container is unsuitable for use, e.g., is out of performance specifications, is subject to one or more electrical faults, is outside its maintenance schedule, or is otherwise unsuitable or risky for electrical connection to the vehicle's power system. In one embodiment, processing the status data includes detecting a deviation from expected operating conditions at the vehicle's power system. Such an unexpected deviation in the vehicle's power system operating conditions may indicate one or more attempts to establish an unauthorized connection.

[0084] Optionally, obtaining the verification level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container at 404 may include sending verification information to a remote server and receiving the verification information from the remote server. The remote server may process the verification information to determine the verification level received by the vehicle power system. Processing at the remote server may include, for example, querying a user at or separate from the vehicle (e.g., a fleet operator) to confirm the request for verification and / or provide additional verification information. Processing the verification information at the remote server to determine the verification level at the server may include comparing the verification information directly or via a device identifier as described above. Processing the verification information at the remote server may also include processing status data of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container as described above. Processing verification at the remote server may allow for centralized control of verification. Centralized control of verification may allow for frequent or real-time updates to the verification level associated with the verification information, for example, allowing for frequent or even real-time updates to policies, fixes for errors in licensing, and the like. In one embodiment, the remote server may deny or restrict authentication requests from certain users, such as authentication requests from users already associated with connection operations that are not permitted at higher levels in the hierarchy of authentication levels.

[0085] At 406, a connection operation between the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container is directed by a controller of the vehicle power system. The connection operation can be one or more of the following: for example, providing the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container with full access to the functionality of the vehicle power system, including control and authentication of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container for future use without requiring additional verification; enabling the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container to draw power from the vehicle power system regardless of the state of the vehicle power system; or enabling the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container to draw power from the vehicle power system subject to the state of the vehicle power system. In one embodiment, the connection operation directed at 406 is directed to be performed by an electrical connection point (such as a power output device) included in the vehicle power system. In one embodiment, the connection operation is a change in power provided at the electrical connection point, the change in power corresponding to a change in the mode of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container. The connection operation performed at the electrical connection point may include, for example, providing power so that power is available at the electrical connection point connected to a connected device (e.g., an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container). The connection operation is directed at 406 by sending commands to, for example, a battery management system, one or more switches within the vehicle's power system, and the like.

[0086] In one embodiment, the directed connection operation at 406 may also include tagging or otherwise attaching an identifier to the connection between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container and the vehicle's electrical system. The tagging or attaching of the identifier may be based on a verification level and the permitted connection. For example, when a connection operation is for an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container that is not permitted, but is permitted due to a verification level (e.g., a fleet operator or unit operator level), the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container may store the identifier in a memory that logs the connection. The log of the connection operation may be entered based on status data of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and shipping container. The log of the connection may indicate, for example, that a warranty rule has been violated.

[0087] Optionally, method 400 also includes monitoring for unauthorized access attempts 408. In one embodiment, monitoring for unauthorized access attempts at 408 includes monitoring electrical connections at an electrical connection point. For example, a change in current, voltage, or frequency may indicate that an unauthorized connection is being attempted at the electrical connection point. In one embodiment, a change in current, voltage, or frequency may indicate an unauthorized connection is being attempted in the absence of a signal corresponding to authentication information provided by a connection of an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to a vehicle electrical system. In one embodiment, monitoring for unauthorized access attempts at 408 includes detecting multiple failed attempts at authentication, such as, for example, when an authentication level for the authentication information provided at 402 cannot be obtained at 404, or when a large amount of data is received that indicates a brute force intrusion attempt.

[0088] Optionally, method 400 may further include disabling access to power at 410 when an unauthorized access attempt is detected at 408. Disabling access to power may include, for example, cutting off power to an electrical connection point (e.g., a power output device), refusing to allow further authentication attempts, such as ceasing to obtain authentication information at 402. Disabling access to power may, for example, last for a predetermined time and / or until the vehicle power system is unlocked by, for example, a user, dealer, or maintenance personnel, such as by providing an unlock code from a remote source or from a local source (e.g., a maintenance tool, a driver's vehicle key, etc.).

[0089] aspect:

[0090] It should be understood that any of aspects 1-8 can be combined with any of aspects 9-18 or 19-26. It should be understood that any of aspects 9-18 can be combined with any of aspects 19-26.

[0091] Aspect 1: Vehicle power and accessory systems, including:

[0092] a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container;

[0093] A vehicle power system comprising:

[0094] Battery;

[0095] Electrical connection points;

[0096] The controller is configured as follows:

[0097] receiving authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container;

[0098] directing operation of the electrical connection point based on a certification level for the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container,

[0099] in:

[0100] The electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is connected to

[0101] said electrical connection point;

[0102] The authentication level is based on the authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container.

[0103] Aspect 2. A vehicle power and accessory system according to Aspect 1, wherein the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container includes a wired connection to the vehicle power system, and the controller is configured to receive the verification information from the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container via the wired connection.

[0104] Aspect 3. The vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of aspects 1 to 2, wherein the vehicle power system includes a wireless communication receiver, and the controller is configured to receive the verification information from the wireless communication receiver.

[0105] Aspect 4. The vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the controller is further configured to determine an authentication level based on the authentication information.

[0106] Aspect 5. The vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the vehicle power system includes a wireless communication antenna, and the controller is further configured to:

[0107] directing transmission of verification information to a remote server via the wireless communication antenna;

[0108] A verification level is received from the remote server.

[0109] Aspect 6. A vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 5, wherein operation of the electrical connection point includes supplying power from the battery to the electric accessories configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container when the vehicle power and accessory system is in a vehicle stop mode.

[0110] Aspect 7. A vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, wherein operation of the electrical connection point includes supplying power to the electric accessories configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and transport container when the vehicle power and accessory system is in load shedding mode.

[0111] Aspect 8. A vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 7, wherein operation of the electrical connection point includes verifying that the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container is for use in the vehicle power and accessory system.

[0112] Aspect 9. A vehicle power system comprising:

[0113] Battery;

[0114] an electrical connection point configured to provide power to an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the shipping container;

[0115] The controller is configured as follows:

[0116] obtaining authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container;

[0117] obtaining a certification rating for the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container;

[0118] Based on the verification level of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container, a connection operation between the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is directed.

[0119] Aspect 10. The vehicle power and accessory system of aspect 9, wherein the connecting operation includes supplying power from the vehicle power system to the electrical connection point.

[0120] Aspect 11. The vehicle power and accessory system of any one of aspects 9 to 10, wherein supplying power from the vehicle power system at the electrical connection point occurs when the vehicle including the vehicle power source is at a stop.

[0121] Aspect 12. The vehicle power and accessory system of aspect 10, wherein supplying power from the vehicle power system at the electrical connection point occurs when a vehicle including the vehicle power source is in a load rejection state.

[0122] Aspect 13. A vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of Aspects 9 to 12, wherein the connection operation includes: authenticating that the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container is for use with the vehicle power system; and allowing connection between the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container at the electrical connection point.

[0123] Aspect 14. The vehicle power and accessory system of any one of Aspects 9 to 13, wherein the vehicle power system further comprises a wireless communication antenna, and the processor is configured to obtain verification information by receiving verification data from the wireless communication antenna.

[0124] Aspect 15. A vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of Aspects 9 to 13, wherein the controller is configured to obtain the verification information via a wired connection between the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container.

[0125] Aspect 16. A vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of Aspects 9 to 15, wherein the controller is configured to obtain the verification level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container by processing the verification information from the vehicle power system to determine the verification level.

[0126] Aspect 17. The vehicle power and accessory system of any one of aspects 9 to 15, wherein the vehicle power system further comprises a wireless communication antenna, and the controller is configured to obtain the verification level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container by:

[0127] directing transmission of the authentication information from the vehicle power system to a remote server via the wireless communication antenna;

[0128] The verification level for the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is received from the remote server via the wireless communication antenna.

[0129] Aspect 18. A vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of Aspects 9 to 17, wherein the controller is further configured to: monitor unauthorized access attempts to the vehicle power system; and disable at least a portion of the vehicle power system when the monitoring detects the unauthorized access attempt.

[0130] Aspect 19. A method of connecting an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to a vehicle power system, comprising:

[0131] providing authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to a vehicle power control device of the vehicle power system;

[0132] forming an allowed connection selected from a plurality of allowed connections between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the transport container and the vehicle powertrain, wherein the allowed connection is selected based on a level of verification,

[0133] Wherein the authentication information identifies an authentication level of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container.

[0134] Aspect 20. The method of aspect 19, wherein providing the verification information comprises providing a signal including the verification information via a wired connection configured to connect to a vehicle power system.

[0135] Aspect 21. A method according to any one of Aspects 19 to 20, wherein providing the verification information includes: the verification information is wirelessly transmitted from a portable device configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container or the electric accessory to the vehicle power system; and allowing connection includes: the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container receives power from the vehicle power system.

[0136] Aspect 22. A method according to aspect 21, wherein the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container receives power from the vehicle power system when the vehicle including the vehicle power source is in a stopped state.

[0137] Aspect 23. The method of aspect 21, wherein the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container receives power from the vehicle power system when the vehicle power source is in a load rejection state.

[0138] Aspect 24. A method according to any one of Aspects 19 to 23, wherein providing the verification information includes providing the verification information from a maintenance tool to the vehicle power system, and allowing connection includes authenticating that an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container is for use in the vehicle power system.

[0139] Aspect 25. The method according to any one of aspects 19 to 24, wherein the enabling connection is established on a power output device of the vehicle power system.

[0140] Aspect 26. The method of any one of aspects 19 to 25, wherein the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is a transport climate control system.

[0141] In all respects, the examples disclosed in this application should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description; and all changes within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims should be embraced therein.

Claims

1. Vehicle electrical and accessory systems, including: a powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container; A vehicle power system comprising: Battery; an electrical connection point, the electrical connection point being an interface that allows the powered accessory to connect to and receive power from the vehicle power system; The controller is configured as follows: obtaining authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container; obtaining a verification level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container, wherein the verification level is based on the verification information; and When the authentication level of the electric accessory permits acquisition of electric power from the vehicle electric system, a connection operation between the vehicle electric system and the electric accessory is directed.

2. The vehicle power and accessory system according to claim 1, wherein: The electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container includes a wired connection to the vehicle power system, and the controller is configured to receive the authentication information from the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container via the wired connection.

3. The vehicle power and accessory system of claim 1, wherein: The vehicle power system includes a wireless communication receiver, and the controller is configured to receive the verification information from the wireless communication receiver.

4. The vehicle power and accessory system of claim 1, wherein: The controller is further configured to determine the authentication level based on the authentication information.

5. The vehicle power and accessory system of claim 1, wherein: The vehicle power system includes a wireless communication antenna, and the controller is further configured to: directing transmission of the verification information to a remote server via the wireless communication antenna; The verification level is received from the remote server.

6. The vehicle power and accessory system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that Operation of the electrical connection point includes supplying power from the battery to the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container when the vehicle power and accessory system is in a vehicle-off mode.

7. A vehicle power system comprising: Battery; an electrical connection point configured to provide power to an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container, wherein the electrical connection point is an interface that allows the electrically powered accessory to connect to and receive power from the vehicle power system; The controller is configured as follows: obtaining authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container; obtaining a certification level for the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container, wherein the certification level is based on the certification information; When the verification level of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container allows power to be drawn from the vehicle power system, directing a connection operation between the vehicle power system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container.

8. The vehicle power system according to claim 7, characterized in that The connecting operation includes supplying electrical power from the vehicle electrical system to the electrical connection point.

9. The vehicle power system according to claim 7, characterized in that The connection operation includes: authenticating the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and transport container as being for use with the vehicle electrical system; and allowing connection between the vehicle electrical system and the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer, and transport container at the electrical connection point.

10. The vehicle power system according to claim 7, characterized in that The vehicle power system further includes a wireless communication antenna, and the controller is configured to obtain the authentication information by receiving authentication data from the wireless communication antenna.

11. The vehicle power system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The controller is configured to obtain the authentication information via a wired connection between the vehicle power system and the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container.

12. The vehicle power system according to claim 7, characterized in that The controller is configured to obtain the authentication level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container by processing the authentication information from the vehicle power system to determine the authentication level.

13. The vehicle power system according to claim 7, wherein: The vehicle power system further includes a wireless communication antenna, and the controller is configured to obtain the verification level for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container by: directing transmission of the authentication information from the vehicle power system to a remote server via the wireless communication antenna; The verification level for the powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is received from the remote server via the wireless communication antenna.

14. The vehicle power system according to any one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that: The controller is further configured to monitor the vehicle power system for unauthorized access attempts and disable at least a portion of the vehicle power system when the monitoring detects the unauthorized access attempt.

15. A method of connecting an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to a vehicle power system, the method being applied to the vehicle power and accessory system of claim 1, the method comprising: providing authentication information for the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container to a vehicle power control device of the vehicle power system; forming an allowed connection selected from a plurality of allowed connections between the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, the trailer, and the transport container and the vehicle power system, wherein the allowed connection is selected based on a level of verification, Wherein the authentication information identifies an authentication level of the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that Providing the verification information includes providing a signal including the verification information via a wired connection configured to connect to a vehicle power system.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that: Providing the verification information includes: the verification information is wirelessly transmitted from the portable device configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer and transport container or the electric accessory to the vehicle power system; allowing the connection includes: the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of the vehicle, trailer and transport container receives power from the vehicle power system.

18. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that Providing the authentication information includes providing the authentication information from a maintenance tool to the vehicle power system, and allowing connection includes authenticating the electric accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container for use in the vehicle power system.

19. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that The enabling connection is established at an electric power output device of the vehicle electric power system.

20. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that The powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container is a transportation climate control system.

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