Abstract:
An apparatus for charging a battery of a vehicle includes at least one photovoltaic cell that is adapted to convert solar insolation into electricity. The position of each photovoltaic cell is varied so that it faces toward a current location of the sun whether the vehicle is stationary or moving whenever the sun is visible. The apparatus is preferably disposed in a spoiler. The spoiler is either permanently attached to or is detachably-attachable with respect to the vehicle. The spoiler helps improve stability and handling at higher vehicle speeds as well as providing for the supplemental charging of the battery. The spoiler adds to the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle while helping to camouflage its primary purpose as that of a solar charging device.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention, in general, relates to solar power and, more particularly, to a solar power-assisted vehicle. 
     Electric vehicles are known as are hybrid gasoline and electric types of vehicles. 
     Whenever a vehicle receives some or all of its power from electricity, the issues of storage of electrical charge and replenishment of the electrical charge arise. 
     There is a need to charge a vehicle&#39;s battery or batteries (whether electric or otherwise) when the vehicle is moving or stationary. 
     Currently, an alternator (or generator) is typically used (whenever an internal combustion engine is used) to supply the required charging current to replenish the electrical charge in the storage battery or batteries. However, it takes energy from the engine to charge the vehicle&#39;s batteries. 
     This decreases fuel economy for hybrid vehicles and maximum range for electric vehicles, which are generally unable to be charged while in motion other than perhaps from a relatively small amount of electrical energy that is extracted during braking. Charging the batteries of a hybrid vehicle without using gasoline to do so would also help to extend its maximum range. 
     Solar panels are also known. However, solar panels are aesthetically unappealing. The importance of aesthetics when it comes to the appearance of a vehicle cannot be overstated. People invest many thousands of dollars more because they prefer the aesthetics of one vehicle over that of another vehicle. They do this even when the more expensive vehicle has a much poorer reliability record or is known to be more costly to maintain. 
     Appearance is one of the most important determinants that influences the selection and purchase of a vehicle, whether it is electric, hybrid, or of internal combustion design. 
     People have long known that solar panels could be placed on the hood, trunk, or roof areas, yet they have refrained from doing so for two primary reasons, one of which is the generally unappealing aesthetic impact such placement of a solar panel would invoke. 
     Furthermore, they do not align with a solar source (i.e., the sun) and, as such, provide limited efficiency. This is a second significant reason that has hindered the use of solar to electric energy generation for vehicles. 
     Additionally, when a vehicle is parked for an extended period of time, the position of the sun is constantly changing. Accordingly, even a solar panel would not supply optimum charge current to a stationary vehicle over a protracted period of time. 
     This problem is compounded by the low position of the sun during times of sunrise and sunset. At or near these periods of time, a solar panel is not receiving much if any solar energy. Therefore, charging cannot possibly occur until the sun is high in the sky. 
     This, therefore, means that less time is available for charging a flat solar panel than the sun is actually visible and providing solar energy (radiation) or insolation. 
     Another important consideration is aerodynamic drag or the coefficient of aerodynamic friction that affects every moving vehicle. Ideally, designers want vehicles to be as slippery as possibly when moving on the surface and passing through the air in order to reduce drag and, therefore, optimize fuel economy. This is becoming an even more important consideration. 
     Additionally, there are many hybrids and a fair number of electric vehicles that presently do not have a method of charging the vehicle&#39;s battery or batteries by solar means. 
     Ideally, an add-on device can be retrofitted to existing vehicles is desirable. 
     If the add-on device were aesthetically appealing or at least neutral, that would be preferred. 
     If the add-on device caused a minimal increase in vehicle drag, that would also be preferred. 
     If the add-on device could increase vehicle traction at higher speeds or vehicle stability at higher speeds, that would also be preferred. 
     If the add-on device maximized the charging efficiency of whatever photovoltaic source is used, that would also be preferred. 
     Additionally, the ability to convert solar insolation into an electrical potential (voltage and current) sufficient to charge a battery (or batteries) is dependent on several factors for any given geographical area. 
     As discussed above, orienting the solar collector(s) (i.e., the photovoltaic cells) so that they are normal to the sun is an important determinant to efficiency. 
     Certainly, the internal design of the photovoltaic cells is also important. 
     Another important determinant to the magnitude of charge current is collector area for this determines the amount of solar insolation that impinges on the photovoltaic cells. Basically, this means that the greater the collector area (i.e., the more photovoltaic cells), the greater the ability to generate electricity. 
     Therefore, it is desirable to provide the capability to expand collector area in the future. 
     All of the above-mentioned needs and preferences for an add-on device that can be retrofitted for use with an existing vehicle also apply to such use in new vehicle design. 
     Additionally, there has been no effective way to charge a moving vehicle because the position of the sun is frequently changing with respect to the vehicle. Accordingly, any photovoltaic cells are likely to be directed away from the sun a significant portion of the time. 
     Accordingly, there exists today a need for a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that helps ameliorate the above-mentioned problems and other problems and difficulties not yet mentioned. 
     Clearly, such an apparatus would be a useful and desirable device. 
     2. Description of Prior Art 
     Solar panels and charging systems are, in general, known. While the structural arrangements of the above described and known devices may, at first appearance, have certain similarities with the present invention, they differ in material respects. These differences, which will be described in more detail hereinafter, are essential for the effective use of the invention and which admit of the advantages that are not available with the prior devices. 
     OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is aesthetically pleasing. 
     It is also an important object of the invention to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can be used to supply an electrical charge to a storage battery or to a plurality of storage batteries. 
     Another object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is able to improve aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. 
     Still another object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that minimizes an amount of aerodynamic drag that is experienced by the vehicle. 
     Still yet another object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that improves the fuel economy of a vehicle. 
     Yet another important object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can improve the maximum range of a vehicle. 
     Still yet another important object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can help charge a storage battery while the vehicle is stationary. 
     A first continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can help charge a storage battery while the vehicle is in motion. 
     A second continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can extend the amount of time during a day that is available for charging a vehicle&#39;s battery. 
     A third continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can enable a photovoltaic cell to begin charging a vehicle&#39;s battery earlier in the morning than with previous designs. 
     A fourth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can enable a photovoltaic cell to continue charging a vehicle&#39;s battery later into the evening than with previous designs. 
     A fifth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can increase the charging efficiency for an extended period of time for a stationary vehicle. 
     A sixth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can increase the charging efficiency for an extended period of time for a moving vehicle. 
     A seventh continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is adapted to determine the position of the sun in the sky. 
     An eighth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is adapted to determine the position of the sun in the sky anywhere within a hemisphere. 
     A ninth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is adapted to orient a photovoltaic device towards the sun. 
     A tenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that includes means for orienting a photovoltaic cell into a position that is normal with respect to the sun. 
     An eleventh continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that includes a dome shaped device for determining the position of the sun. 
     A twelfth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that includes one or more photovoltaic devices that are disposed on a spoiler, the spoiler being adapted for attachment to the vehicle. 
     A thirteenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can be expanded to increase the area of photovoltaic coverage. 
     A fourteenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can be retrofitted for use with existing types of vehicles. 
     A fifteenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that can be used with new design vehicles. 
     A sixteenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is economical to manufacture. 
     A seventeenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is easy to install on new vehicles. 
     An eighteenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is easy to install and retrofit for use on existing vehicles. 
     A nineteenth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that includes a simple, yet rugged, mechanism for determining the position of the sun in the sky. 
     A twentieth continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is reliable. 
     A twenty-first continuing object of the invention is to provide a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is able to improve the efficiency of a photovoltaic cell at producing electricity. 
     Briefly, a solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle that is constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention has an apparatus for determining the position of the sun in the sky and at least one photovoltaic cell that is adapted to convert solar insolation into electricity. The orientation of the photovoltaic cell is varied so that it remains normal with respect to a position of the sun whether the vehicle is stationary or moving. Preferably, the apparatus for determining the position of the sun and also preferably a plurality of the photovoltaic cells are disposed on a spoiler that is either permanently attached to or which is detachably-attachable with respect to the vehicle. Accordingly, the benefits of a spoiler which include improved stability at higher speeds and improved handling at higher speeds are provided as well as the benefit of solar charging. The spoiler provides a minimum increase in drag and for certain vehicles can improve (i.e., lessen) drag. The spoiler also effectively hides its primary purpose as a solar charging device. The spoiler can be attached over the trunk, roof, or where desired. If preferred, additional solar panels can be added to increase capacity of the system. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a cross-sectional view from the side of a dome sensor for use with the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle. 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagrammatic view of the relationships between morning sunlight striking a phototransistor array of the dome sensor of  FIG. 1 , a microprocessor, a photovoltaic position controller, and a photovoltaic device. 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagrammatic view of the relationships between noon sunlight striking the phototransistor array of the dome sensor, the microprocessor, the photovoltaic position controller, and the photovoltaic device of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of a drive mechanism for tilting the photovoltaic device(s) of  FIG. 2  along the X axis. 
         FIG. 5  is a plan (top) view of a drive mechanism for tilting the photovoltaic device(s) of  FIG. 2  along the Y axis. 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of a trunk of a vehicle and including a cross-sectional view of a spoiler that is mounted to the trunk. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring to  FIG. 1  is shown, a cross-sectional view of a dome sensor, identified in general by the reference numeral  20 . The dome sensor  20  is used to determine the position of the sun anywhere within a hemispherical view. 
     A photo-transistor array  22  is disposed at the bottom of the dome sensor  20 . The photo-transistor array  22  includes a plurality of phototransistors that are placed side by side in a matrix or array pattern. 
     A plurality of fiber optic strands  24  are disposed at a first end of each strand  24   a  immediately above the photo-transistor array  22 . An opposite end of each of the plurality of strands  24   b  is disposed adjacent to an outside globe  26 . 
     The globe  26  includes a shape that approximates one-half of a sphere, or as a hemisphere. The globe  26  is formed of any preferred material that is able to allow at least a portion (i.e., some wavelength or band of wavelengths) of solar radiation  28  being emitted by the sun  30  to pass through the globe  26 . 
     A portion of the solar radiation  28  (i.e., sunlight) that passes through the globe  26  enters into some of the fiber optic strands  24  that are facing toward the sun  30 . A first group of fiber optic strands  24  that is receiving light from the sun  30  (solar radiation  28 ) is identified, in general, by bracket  31  and which will be discussed in greater detail, hereinafter. 
     It is important to understand that the plurality of fiber optic strands  24  are precisely arranged at the second ends  24   b  thereof to provide a presence that is sufficient throughout an interior of the globe  26 . 
     Accordingly, if the sun  30  is anywhere above the horizon, in other words if the sun  30  has risen, and no object is blocking the view of the dome  26  (between the sun  30  and the dome  26 ), then some of the plurality of fiber optic strands  24  will be able to receive the radiation  28  sufficient to later determine where the sun  30  is located with respect to the phototransistor array  22 , and therefore with respect to the current position of the dome  26 . 
     The phototransistor array  22 , as is described in greater detail hereinafter, is able to provide a composite input signal  32  to a microcomputer  34 . The microcomputer  34  averages the incident radiation  28  that impinges on the phototransistor array  22  to determine a location of the sun  30  relative to the dome  26  at any given instant. The microprocessor  34  emits an output signal  36  that is indicative of the position of the sun  30  relative to the position of the dome  26  at that time. 
     Referring now also to  FIG. 2 , is shown, the phototransistor array  22  along with an indication of the light output from the first group of fiber optic strands  24 . The fiber optic strands  24  included in the bracket  31  comprise a circular pattern of incident solar radiation  28 . Accordingly, bracket  31  really includes a circular shape and can also be referred to herein as circle  31 . This light output is impinging (i.e., striking) a particular area of the phototransistor array  22 , as shown by circle  31 . 
     This is because in the  FIG. 1  cross-sectional view, bracket  31  did not show the full extent of the fiber optic strands  24  (or filaments) that would actually be receiving some of the solar radiation  28 . The circle  31 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , is more representative of the total amount, location, and shape of the pattern of solar radiation  28  that is striking the phototransistor array  22 . 
     The light from the sun  30  that impinges on a surface is also referred to as “solar insolation”. Accordingly, circle  31  represents the solar insolation pattern that is impinging on the phototransistor array  22  at that moment. As the sun  30  moves in the sky (assuming the dome  26  remains stationary), the position of the circle  31  will of course move over the surface of the phototransistor array  22  to reflect that movement. 
     Similarly, if the position of the dome  26  were to move relative to the position of the sun  30 , the position of the circle  31  will similarly move over the surface of the phototransistor array  22 . 
     The phototransistor array  22  is shown as being rectangular in shape. However, the phototransistor array  22  can include any preferred shape. The shape of the phototransistor array  22  is not significant. What is significant is the position of the circle  31  relative to the phototransistor array  22 . 
     The circle  31  represents those fiber optic filaments (strands) that are receiving a substantive amount of the solar radiation  28 . There may be some additional minimal solar radiation (i.e., solar insolation) that is being received by other fiber optic strands  24  and therefore also impinging on other areas of the phototransistor array  22 , however, this is minimal and generally insignificant. 
     A sufficient quantity of the fiber optic filaments (strands)  24  are provided to virtually cover all of the phototransistor array  22  at the first end of the fiber optic strands  24 . This ensures that ambient light will not impinge on the phototransistor array  22  to any appreciable degree that could confuse detection of the direction of the sun  30 . It also ensures that any of the solar radiation  28  not passing through the plurality of fiber optic strands  24  will not impinge significantly on the phototransistor array  22  and possibly confuse determination of the direction of the sun  30 . 
     The input signal  32  to the microprocessor  34 , as mentioned above is a composite signal. That means it includes information about which individual phototransistors that comprise the plurality of phototransistors in the phototransistor array  22  are receiving solar insolation, as shown by circle  31 . Each of the phototransistors that comprise the phototransistor array  22  is assigned an address along with an X-Y coordinate by the microprocessor  34 . Each of the fiber optic strands  24  is carefully located at both ends thereof. Accordingly, which transistors of the phototransistor array  22  are energized (i.e., which ones are receiving light energy) are indicative of the position of the sun  30  relative to the dome  26 . 
     The microprocessor  34  averages the incident energy to determine a center of the circle  31 . The output signal  36  is indicative of the center of the circle  31  at any given time. The output signal  36  is expected to provide constant or frequent periodic updates as to the position of the sun  30  to a photovoltaic positional controller, identified in general by the reference numeral  38 . 
     Although the output signal  36  can be encoded as desired, the basic information it contains must be sufficient to point to the sun  30  in space relative to the location and position of the dome  26 . 
     While the essential information of the output signal  36  can be encoded in a variety of ways, as desired, astronomers, for example, currently prefer to point to objects in space (understanding that the view from any position on earth also approximates looking upward at the inside of a hemisphere) by providing an azimuth coordinate and an elevation coordinate. This essential information is included as part of the output signal  36  and is provided in a form that the photovoltaic positional controller  38  can utilize. 
     The photovoltaic positional controller  38  uses the data in the output signal  36  to provide a second X-Y control signal  40  that is used to tilt (i.e., position) a photovoltaic device  42  (or preferably a plurality thereof) along an X-Y axis. Accordingly, the photovoltaic device  42  is tilted on two axes by the photovoltaic positional controller  38  so as to point directly at the sun  30 . 
     The photovoltaic positional controller  38  can, if preferred, include circuitry that decodes the input signal  36  sufficient to provide the second X-Y control signal  40 . Alternately, the photovoltaic positional controller  38  can include a second microprocessor (not shown) or it can share and rely on the processing ability of the microprocessor  34  to decode the output signal  36  and generate the second X-Y control signal  40 . 
     If the microprocessor  34  is also used to provide the functional equivalent of the photovoltaic positional controller  38 , then both functions can be performed by the same hardware and software, as shown by dashed line  43  ( FIG. 2  only). 
     Referring now momentarily to  FIG. 4 , a detailed view of how the photovoltaic device  42  is tilted along an X axis is shown. The second X-Y control signal  40  provides a first output  40   a  and a second output  40   b  ( FIG. 5 ), the first output  40   a  controlling movement (i.e., tilting) of the photovoltaic device  42  along the X axis and the second output  40   b  controlling movement (i.e., tilting) of the photovoltaic device  42  along the Y axis, both of which are occurring simultaneously, and either constantly or periodically, as desired. 
     Motion along the Y axis is accomplished in a similar manner to that along the X axis and is described immediately following the description of motion along the X axis. 
     While many ways are possible to direct the positioning of the photovoltaic device  42 , one preferred way is described herein. A second photovoltaic device  44  and a third photovoltaic device  46  are also shown to illustrate that a plurality are expected to be used. 
     A partial ball  48  is attached along a longitudinal length of a tube  50  of the photovoltaic device  42 . A lens  52  is preferably disposed at an end of the tube  50  that is closest to the sun  30 . The lens  52  directs incident light ( 28 ) through the tube and onto an actual photovoltaic cell  54  (or plurality thereof) that is disposed at an opposite end of the tube  50 . 
     The photovoltaic cell  54  includes any type of device that is capable of converting solar insolation (i.e., the 28 that actually impinges on the photovoltaic cell  54 ) into electricity in terms of either a voltage differential (i.e., a potential) or a current flow. As shown, a ground output  56  and a positive voltage output  58  are provided by the photovoltaic cell  54 . The ground and positive voltage outputs  56 ,  58  of the plurality of photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46  (and others, not shown) can be arranged in parallel or in series or a combination thereof, as preferred. 
     Each partial ball  48  is disposed in a support structure  60 . Each support structure  60  is attached to a surrounding frame structure (not shown) that supports all component parts. 
     Each support structure  60  includes a spherical shaped recess that contains the partial ball  48  and which allows movement of the partial ball  48  therein a limit amount about a point in any direction. Ideally, the support structure  60  provides minimal limitation and allows each photovoltaic device to be disposed from as close to horizontal in any direction to as close to horizontal in the opposite direction. 
     Accordingly, the photovoltaic devices are adapted to tilt about both an X and a Y axis. 
     Referring now momentarily to a modified photovoltaic device  62  that is attached to a modified support structure  64  by a first pair of pins  66  (only one is shown) and which allow the modified photovoltaic device  62  to tilt about the X axis. The modified support structure  64  includes a second pair of pins  68  that permit the modified support structure  64 , and therefore also the modified photovoltaic device  62 , to tilt about a Y axis. The second pair of pins  68  enter into a second modified support structure (not shown) and pivot therein. The second modified support structure is attached to the frame. 
     The modified photovoltaic device  62  is included to illustrate that various ways of mounting the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46  and the modified photovoltaic device  62  sufficient to tilt them in any direction are possible. 
     It is also important to note that the tube  50  portion does not have to be cylindrical in shape. If preferred, a modified tube  69  could be conical in shape as shown in a second modified photovoltaic device  70  with the portion closest to the sun  30  having the largest diameter. A modified lens  72  would similarly be increased in size and modified so as to direct all of the incident radiation  28  onto the smaller sized photovoltaic cell  54  disposed at an opposite end of the modified tube  69 . 
     The advantage to this possible configuration is that solar insolation collector area can be maximized (for each photovoltaic device) without having to increase the number of photovoltaic cells  54  in order to have a photovoltaic collector area that is equal to the that of the solar insolation collector area. In other words, a smaller overall area of the photovoltaic cells  54  can be used than that of the modified lenses  72 . 
     This provides two primary benefits. It increases the amount of available energy (solar insolation) because of a larger collector area (which is equal to the area of the modified lens  72 ). This, in turn, increases the amount of electricity being produced by the ground and positive outputs  56 ,  58  of the photovoltaic cell  54 . 
     This configuration also helps improve overall system efficiency by allowing the photovoltaic cell  54  to pass beyond a minimum threshold of solar insolation that is required for it to produce electricity for a greater period of time each day. By focusing the solar radiation  28  onto the photovoltaic cell  54  by the modified lens  72 , it is able to produce usable electricity before the sun  30 , itself, has risen sufficiently high in the sky to do so with a smaller collector area. 
     The same is true in the evening in that electricity will continue to be produced by the photovoltaic cell  54  of the second modified photovoltaic device  70  when the sun has descended lower in the horizon than would otherwise be possible. The same is true with overcast and other conditions that reduce the intensity of the solar radiation  28 . As a result, efficiency of the photovoltaic cell  54  of the second modified photovoltaic device  70  is improved. 
     The first output  40   a  is used to actuate in either direction (as shown by arrow  73 ) a first motor  74  which drives a first gear  76  a predetermined amount in either direction. The first gear  76  drives a linear gear  78  (i.e., a rack gear) that is attached to a first member  80 . The first member includes a plurality of spaced-apart openings  82  therein. 
     A protruding rod  84  extends downward from a bottom of each of the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  62 ,  70 . Each protruding rod  84  passes through one of the spaced-apart openings  82  and includes sufficient tolerance to allow for tilting of the protruding rod  84  therein away from normal. 
     Accordingly, motion of the first gear  76  displaces the first member  80  left to right and back as shown by arrow  86 . This represents movement along the X axis. 
     The first member  80  is increased in size to simultaneously tilt (move) a plurality of banks (i.e., parallel rows, not shown) of the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 , or the first modified photovoltaic devices  62 , or the second modified photovoltaic devices  70 , or a combination thereof, as desired. To tilt a plurality of banks of the photovoltaic devices  42 , the first member is modified so as to include structure similar to that of a second member  88 , as is described in greater detail hereinbelow. 
     Referring also to  FIG. 5 , the second output  40   b  is used to actuate in either direction (as shown by arrow  90 ) a second motor  92  which drives a second gear  94  a predetermined amount in either direction. The second gear  94  drives a second linear gear  96  (i.e., also a rack gear) that is attached to the second member  88 . 
     The second member  88  also includes the plurality of spaced-apart openings  82  therein that align with the spaced-apart openings  82  of the first member  80 . 
     The second member  88  is disposed under the first member  80 . All of the protruding rods  84  also pass through the corresponding spaced-apart openings  82  of the second member. 
     Accordingly, the second output  40   b  is used to urge the second member  88  a predetermined amount in the direction as shown by arrow  90 . This is movement along the Y axis. 
     The second member  88  and the second motor  92  control motion along the Y axis and “float” along the X axis. In other words, the second member  88  and the second motor  92  are able to move freely in the direction as shown by arrow  86 . 
     Similarly, the first motor  74  and the first member  80  control motion along the X axis and “float” along the Y axis. In other words, the first member  80  and the first motor  74  are able to move freely in the direction as shown by arrow  90 . 
     If preferred, each of the spaced-apart openings  82  of the first member  80  could be replaced with first slots (not shown). The first slots would each be parallel with arrow  90 . This would allow the first member  80  to direct movement of the protruding members  84  along the X axis but would allow tolerance along the longitudinal length of the first slots for positional control by second member  88  along the Y axis. 
     Similarly, each of the spaced-apart openings  82  of the second member  88  could be replaced with second slots (not shown). The second slots would each be parallel with arrow  86 . This would allow the second member  88  to direct movement of the protruding members  84  along the Y axis but would allow tolerance along the longitudinal length of the second slots for positional control by first member  80  along the X axis. 
     The first output  40   a  and the second output  40   b  along with the first member  80  and the second member  88  are used to tilt all of the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  62 ,  70  along both an X and a Y axis sufficient to simultaneously point all of them in any desired direction in space. 
     All of the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  62 ,  70  are preferably parallel and are all urged in unison. Therefore, they all point in the same direction. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 2  and now also to  FIG. 3 , which is similar to  FIG. 2  except that a second circle  98  is shown on the phototransistor array  22  at a different location than the circle  31 . Also according to  FIG. 3 , the photovoltaic device is pointing more vertical than in  FIG. 2 . 
     Let us assume that circle  31  of  FIG. 2  represents the sun rising at a particular direction relative to the dome  26 . The second X-Y control signal  40  of the photovoltaic positional controller  38  has been used continuously to track the position of the sun  30  and to ensure that at any given moment the photovoltaic device  42  has been pointing directly toward sun  30 . 
     Let us assume that second circle  98  of  FIG. 3  represents a position of the sun around noon, high in the sky, taken some hours after that of  FIG. 2 . The second X-Y control signal  40  of the photovoltaic positional controller  38  has been used to point the photovoltaic device  42  toward the early morning sun  30 . 
     At this time (in accordance with  FIG. 3 ), the sun  30  is nearly overhead and the photovoltaic device  42  has been urged about both the X and the y axis an amount sufficient so that it continues pointing toward the sun  30 , which now has become the noon sun  30 . Throughout the day, as the sun  30  moves relative to the dome  26 , so does the dome sensor  20  continually track the position of the sun  30 , and in response thereto, so does the photovoltaic device  42  (i.e., the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  62 ,  70 ) continually move and point toward the sun  30 . Thereby, the production of electricity and overall efficiency of the photovoltaic device  42  is optimized throughout the day. 
     It has been shown how the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  62 ,  70  track the position of the sun  30  as it changes relative to the dome  26 . It does not matter if the relative change in motion is caused by the dome  26  being stationary or if the dome  26  is quickly moving while the sun  30  remains relatively stationary or both. The same system, as described herein allows tracking of the position of the sun  30  relative to the dome  26  and continual correction of the position of the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  62 ,  70  to ensure that they each always point toward the sun. This allows placement of the dome sensor  20  and of the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  62 ,  70  on either stationary or on moving objects. The latter is described in greater detail hereinbelow. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , is shown, a spoiler  102  (in cross-sectional view thereof) attached to and disposed over a trunk  104  of a motor vehicle. Only the spoiler  102  is shown in cross-sectional view. The remainder includes a side view and certain components that are hidden from view in dashed lines. 
     While the vehicle can include any type of vehicle, a preferred type includes an electric or hybrid type of vehicle. 
     A solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle, as shown in general by reference numeral  100 , is attached to the spoiler  102 . This type of attachment provides many benefits as are described in greater detail hereinafter. 
     When all of the component parts ( 20 - 98 ) as described hereinabove (or their functional equivalent) are included as part of a system that is attached to the vehicle (anywhere desired) and which is adapted to charge a storage battery  106  (dashed lines) or a plurality of storage batteries, a version of the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  is provided. When the spoiler  102  is used to house these component parts, a preferred version thereof is provided. 
     The spoiler  102  is secured to the trunk  104  of the vehicle by screws  107  or by any other preferred method, for example the use of an adhesive. 
     The spoiler  102  includes a positive wire  108  and a negative wire  110  that pass out of a hole provided in a bottom of the spoiler  102  and an aligning hole that is provided in the trunk  104  and eventually make electrical contact with a positive and negative terminal of the battery  106 , either directly, or though other wires or the chassis of the vehicle, as preferred. 
     The battery  106  that is being recharged by the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  can include the normal 12 VDC battery used to start and operate the vehicle or it can include any and all batteries that are used to supply motive power for hybrid and electric vehicles. 
     Accordingly, power from the battery  106  is available to operate the first and second motors  74 ,  92  of the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  and supply power for the dome sensor  20 , the microprocessor  34 , and other component parts thereof. 
     When the sun is visible and the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  is operating, it is supplying a greater amount of electrical energy than it is using and therefore the direction of current flow occurring through the positive and negative wires  108 ,  110  are reversed during charging. 
     Obviously, if the sun has set and no portion of the phototransistor array  22  is receiving any solar insolation (i.e., solar radiation  28 ), the system will be in an off or quiescent mode where very little electrical energy is being used by the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , the sun  30  is overhead and the dome sensor  20  has provided an indication of the sun&#39;s position relative thereto. The microprocessor  34  and the photovoltaic positional controller  38  have energized the first and second motors  74 ,  92  sufficient to urge the first member  80  and the second member  88  into position so that all of the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46  (and others) are pointing directly toward the sun  30 . Accordingly, the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  is producing electricity and is charging the battery  106 . 
     As the vehicle is driven, the position of the sun  30  relative to the dome sensor  20  will be constantly changing both in direction (bearing) and elevation as the vehicle tilts forward and backward and as the sun  30  continues its relentless progression through the sky. All the while the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  is continually (i.e., periodically as fast as the processing time allows) providing a signal to the motors  74 ,  92  to maintain the photovoltaic devices  42 ,  44 ,  46  pointing toward the sun  30 . 
     Accordingly, even while the vehicle is being driven the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  is able to charge its batteries. As long as the sun  30  is visible and of sufficient intensity the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  will be charging the battery  106 . Of course, if the battery  106  (or batteries) are fully charged, the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  will be maintaining their charge at full. 
     This provides maximum efficiency of charge whether the vehicle is stationary or being driven. 
     The spoiler  102  acts as an airfoil that applies slight downward pressure at speed. Accordingly, high speed handling and stability of the vehicle are improved. 
     The spoiler  102  also presents a minimum increase in wind resistance or drag. Depending on the particular vehicle that the spoiler  102  is being installed, the height of the spoiler  102  above the trunk  104  can be varied to optimize airflow off of the roof (not shown) of the vehicle. 
     Accordingly, the use of the spoiler  102  may actually improve airflow at speed and improve the ballistic coefficient of friction of the vehicle sufficient to reduce its drag at speed and, therefore, improve its highway fuel economy. 
     Because the dome sensor  20  is the only part of the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  that protrudes above the surface and therefore offers any increase to drag, it (the dome sensor  20 ) can be made very small in actual size. 
     Furthermore, the spoiler  102  provides an unexpected benefit in that it improves the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle because it does not look like a solar battery charging system. Except for a glass or plastic panel  112  on the surface to allow the solar radiation  28  to pass through, the spoiler  102  looks like a conventional type of non-charging automotive spoiler (not shown). 
     Accordingly, users do not have to sacrifice or compromise the appearance of their vehicles but can actually add to appearance by adding the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 . 
     Additionally, the spoiler  102  is expected to be colored to match or well-contrast with the colors or accent colors of the vehicle. 
     Also, because the photovoltaic devices  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70  track the sun, efficiency is increased. This provides the same or even a greater charge capacity from a smaller collector area than is possible with other prior art devices. This allows for a smaller embodiment of the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  to achieve a comparable rate of charge. 
     Accordingly, visual impact caused by the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  is minimized, as are drag (wind resistance) while aesthetics are preserved or improved. 
     In general, the practical application of solar assisted charging of the battery  106  or batteries of a vehicle is provided. Such application will produce additional pollution-free energy while helping to save precious fossil-fuel preserves. 
     If preferred a second functional spoiler  114  can be attached elsewhere to the trunk  104  or, if preferred, to the roof or elsewhere on the vehicle to provide an increased collector area of photovoltaic devices  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70  as desired, and therefore increase the charging capacity of the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 . 
     The second functional spoiler  114  would be functionally identical to the spoiler  102  that is used with the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 , except that it could have either a larger or smaller collector area (i.e., either a larger or smaller effective collector area of the photovoltaic devices  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70 ). The second functional spoiler  114  would also be typically wired in parallel, or if preferred, in series with the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 . 
     The second functional spoiler  114  also illustrates that heights and widths other than shown on the spoiler  102  are possible. 
     If desired to increase charge capacity, a convention prior art type of solar panel  116  (i.e., one that is comprised of stationary photovoltaic cells) could be used in addition to the second functional spoiler  114  or in place of it. Because it would not be able to track the sun  30 , it would be less efficient than the spoiler  102  or the second functional spoiler  114  as have been disclosed herein, yet it is mentioned as a possible low cost addition to further increase capacity that can be used with the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 . 
     If the prior art type of solar panel  116  is used, it could be partially or totally recessed below the surface of the trunk  104  (as shown) or located elsewhere so that its top surface is preferably flush with the surface of the trunk  104  or it can be added on top of the trunk  104 , as desired. It would be wired in parallel or series with the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  to increase charging capacity of the system. 
     There are of course many ways to calibrate the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 . The end user need not do that, unless desired, for it can be accomplished at the factory. 
     If calibration occurs at the factory, preferably a collimated source of illumination (not shown) that approximates the effects of the sun can be directed at a specific location on the dome  26  for a period of time. This will illuminate and therefore energize a particular group of the phototransistors in the phototransistor array  22 . 
     During calibration mode (either at the factory or after installation) the microprocessor  34  directs the photovoltaic positional controller to sweep the photovoltaic cells  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70  until they are producing the greatest rate of charge possible. A correlation is then made in memory of the microprocessor  34  between the optimum position for the photovoltaic cells  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70  and the area of the phototransistor array  22  that is illuminated. 
     This is repeated a sufficient amount of time until either all or a sufficient number of areas of the microprocessor array  22  are correlated to positions (of the first member  80  and the second member  88  in both X and Y) of the photovoltaic devices  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70 . If all positions are not specifically used for calibration, the microprocessor  34  can be programmed to extrapolate the ideal positioning of the photovoltaic devices  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70  that are between the positions actually calibrated. 
     If the end user is calibrating the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 , it can be set to automatically enter into a calibration mode on power on or, if preferred, input switches can be used for that purpose. The user could simply drive the vehicle around for a predetermined period of time, being instructed to drive up and down hills and make as many turns as possible, perhaps periodically stopping at certain locations for a short time, while the microprocessor  34  sweeps the photovoltaic devices  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70  as described above, to calibrate the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100 . 
     Additionally, the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  could remain in “calibration mode” for days if necessary until all or a sufficient number of areas of the phototransistor array  22  have been illuminated to fully calibrate the system. 
     Accordingly, a fully automatic way of calibrating the solar generator for an electric or a hybrid vehicle  100  is provided that correlates the location of the sun with the positioning of the photovoltaic devices  42 - 46 ,  62 ,  70 . 
     The invention has been shown, described, and illustrated in substantial detail with reference to the presently preferred embodiment. It will be understood by those skilled in this art that other and further changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention which is defined by the claims appended hereto.