Component for vehicle interior

Abstract

A component for a vehicle seat may comprise a carrier and an intermediate section for the carrier. The component may comprise a mass-reduced component and / or a recyclable sub-assembly. The component may comprise a composite material configured for mass reduction and / or recyclability as a sub-assembly. The composite material may comprise polymer material of a group: polyamide, polycarbonate, polyester, polypropylene. The component may comprise a mono-material configured for recyclability as a partial sub-assembly or as a substantially complete sub-assembly. The component may comprise a seat with headrest assembly, armrest assembly, seat panel to facilitate recyclability with improved efficiency. The headrest assembly may comprise a base formed on an insert; material of the insert may provide adhesion with material of the base. The component may comprise a panel comprising an organosheet made of fiber-reinforced polypropylene resin. The component may comprise an armrest assembly comprising a base and an insert reinforcing the base.

Description

PATENT APPLICATIONCOMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIORCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in full the following patent applications: (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 309,209 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed February 11, 2022; (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 309,258 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE” filed February 11, 2022; (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 309,287 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed February 11, 2022; (d) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 406,083 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed September 13, 2022.FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior.

[0003] The present invention also relates to component for a vehicle interior configured to provide for mass reduction.

[0004] The present invention also relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a recyclable sub-assembly of the component.BACKGROUND

[0005] It is known to provide a component for a vehicle interior such as a seat comprising a headrest assembly and / or an armrest assembly and / or a side / seat panel assembly and / or a seat back panel assembly.

[0006] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior such as a seat comprising a headrest assembly and / or an armrest assembly and / or a side / seat panel assembly and / or a seat back panel assembly configured to facilitate mass reduction.

[0007] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior such as a seat comprising a headrest assembly and / or an armrest assembly and / or a side / seat panel assembly and / or a seat back panel assembly configured to facilitate recyclable subassemblies for improved efficiency in recycling of materials.SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention relates to a component configured for a seat for an interior of a vehicle comprising a carrier and an intermediate section provided for the carrier. The carrier with intermediate section may comprise at least one of a headrest assembly, an armrest assembly, a seat panel and / or a seat back panel. The component may comprise a mass- reduced component. The component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The carrier and the intermediate section may comprise the recyclable sub-assembly. The component may comprise a component assembly comprising the headrest assembly and / or the armrest assembly and / or the seat panel and / or the seat back panel. The carrier and the intermediate section may comprise the component assembly. The component assembly may comprise a composite material configured for mass reduction. The composite material may comprise at least one of an organosheet; a unidirectional tape; a unidirectional sheet; an expanded polymer. The component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable subassembly may comprise a composite material configured for recyclability. The composite material may comprise a reinforcement comprising fiber and a polymer material. The component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise a polymer material configured for recyclability. The polymer material may be selected from at least one of a polyamide group; a polycarbonate group; a polyester group; a polypropylene group. The polymer material may be selected from a group of polymer materials configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly; the polymer material configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly may be selected from a group of polymer materials comprising (a) a polyamide group; (b) a polycarbonate group; (c) a polyester group; (d) a polypropylene group. The group of polymer materials may comprise a mono-material for recyclability as a complete sub-assembly; the mono-material may comprise a single material group. The polyamide group may comprise at least one of polyamide; polyamide 6; polyamide 6 / 6; polyamide 10 / 10; polyamide 12; recycled polyamide; biobased polyamide; polyamide glass fiber; polyamide resin. The polycarbonate group may comprise at least one of polycarbonate; expanded polycarbonate; recycled polycarbonate; biobased polycarbonate; polycarbonate-polyester blend; polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blend. The polyester group may comprise at least one of polyester fabric; polyester / plastic; polyethylene terephthalate; polybutylene terephthalate. The polypropylene group may comprise at least one of polypropylene; expanded polypropylene; polyolefin; thermoplastic polyolefin; polyethylene. The carrier may comprise a panel; the panel may comprise an organosheet. The organosheet may comprise a polymer material and at least one of continuous glass fiber;long glass fiber; continuous aramid fiber, long aramid fiber; continuous carbon fiber, long carbon fiber. The polymer material of the organosheet may comprise at least one of polypropylene resin; polyamide resin; polycarbonate resin. The carrier may comprise a base; the base may comprise a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for ribs and / or a copolyester or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for a retainer. The component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly comprising at least one of an organosheet or a polyester foam with a polyester non-woven material. The component may comprise material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable subassembly; the material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable subassembly may comprise polyvinylchloride and / or polyurethane and / or synthetic leather and / or genuine leather. The component may comprise a sub-assembly configured to facilitate processing into a reusable material. The sub-assembly may comprise materials configured to be disassembled together at end of life. The sub-assembly may be configured to be shredded or chopped for reuse of materials into recycled material. The sub-assembly may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material. The carrier may comprise a base and / or a panel and / or a substrate and / or a frame. The intermediate section for the carrier may comprise at least one of a connected section and / or an adjacent section and / or an intermediate layer and / or a cover and / or a foam material and / or a spacer material and / or a spacer fabric material and / or a pad and / or a cushion. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat; the mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the headrest assembly relative to the seat; the mechanism may comprise a slider mechanism. The carrier may comprise a frame; the frame may comprise a support frame configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat. The support frame may comprise at least one notch and / or a molded notch for the mechanism. The support frame may comprise a base member and an inner member. The inner member may comprise a frame member and / or an insert member. The support frame may comprise a base member formed on an insert member. The base member may be formed of a material and the insert member may be formed of composite material; the composite material of the insert member may be configured to provide adhesion with the material of the base member. The insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide adhesion with the base member. The insert member may comprise a cross-section; the cross-section may comprise at least one of (a) circular, (b) triangular, (c) rectangular, (d) polygonal, (e) L-shape, (f) T- shape, (g) H-shape, (h) dumbbell shape. The insert member may comprise a rod and / or a bar and / or a set of rods and / or a set of members. The insert member may comprise a set of rods;each rod of the set of rods may comprise a generally rectangular section. The insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod of the set of rods may comprise a generally curved section. The insert member may comprise a rod comprising a center section and a set of edge sections; a set of ends may be provided at each edge section; the set of ends may comprise enlarged ends. The insert member may comprise the set of ends connected by a connector section. The insert member may comprise at least one of (a) a circular section, (b) a triangular section, (c) a rectangular section, (d) a polygonal section, (e) an L-shape section, (f) a T-shape section, (g) an H-shape section, (h) a dumbbell shape section, (i) a ladder-shape section. The insert member may comprise a feature. The feature may comprise a set of ends at an edge section. The insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide retention within the base member. The feature may comprise a set of projections and / or a set of threads. The support frame may comprise a set of base members and a set of inner members. The set of inner members may comprise reinforcement members for the set of base members. The support frame may comprise a composite material; the composite material may comprise a carbon- fiber material and / or a polymer material. The composite material may comprise unidirectional continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material and / or a continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material. The composite material may comprise continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material. The composite material may comprise a polycarbonate material. The support frame may comprise a carbon fiber reinforced composite material. The polymer material may comprise an injection molded material and / or an extruded material. The support frame may comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material; the inner members of the set of inner members comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material. A recyclable subassembly may comprise the support frame. The headrest assembly may comprise a mass- reduced headrest assembly comprising a composite material selected from the group comprising composite material. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a carbon-fiber material. The component may comprise an armrest assembly; the carrier may comprise a base; the intermediate section may comprise an insert within the base. The component may comprise a cover for the base. The insert may comprise a reinforcement. The armrest assembly may be configured to be assembled to a seat and / or a console and / or a trim panel. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to attach the armrest assembly to the seat; the mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the armrest assembly relative to the seat. The base of the armrest assembly may comprise a structural substrate. The base of the armrest assembly may comprise a shell; the shell may comprise asection; the section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement; the rigidifying arrangement may comprise a pattern. The insert may comprise a structural member. The armrest assembly may comprise a top section; the top section may comprise the intermediate section; the top section may comprise an intermediate material and a cover material; the intermediate material may comprise a foam material. The foam material may comprise a polyurethane foam; the foam material is disassembled from a recyclable sub-assembly. The foam material may comprise a polyolefin foam; a recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the foam material. The foam material may comprise a polypropylene-based foam and / or a polyethylene foam. The cover material may comprise a polypropylene-based material and / or a polyester material. The cover material may comprise a foil material; the foil material may comprise a thermoplastic olefin. The cover material may comprise an expanded polypropylene material. The base and / or insert comprise at least one of a long glass fiber material; a continuous glass fiber material; a polymer material; a filament glass material; a composite material; a polymer consolidated composite laminate; a polypropylene-based woven glass fiber mat; a polyamide based woven glass fiber; a polypropylene based organosheet; a polyamide based organosheet. The armrest assembly may comprise a mass-reduced armrest assembly comprising a composite material of a group comprising polymer material and / or composite material. The armrest assembly may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise a base and an insert. The carrier may comprise a substrate; the substrate may comprise a structural substrate and / or a base and / or a reinforcement. The intermediate section may comprise a reinforcement and / or an insert. The intermediate section may comprise a cover. The substrate may comprise a panel; the panel may comprise a seat panel and / or a seat back panel; the seat panel may comprise a side panel. The intermediate section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement for the panel. The rigidifying arrangement may comprise a pattern. The pattern may comprise a honeycomb pattern and / or a lamellar pattern. The component may comprise a reinforcement section comprising a layered panel and / or a sandwich panel. The panel may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The recyclable subassembly may comprise a cover. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the base and the insert and the cover. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at least one of an organosheet; glass fiber with polypropylene resin and a polyester non-woven material or a polyethylene terephthalate foam with a polyester non-woven material. The recyclable subassembly may comprise the panel and a cover. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the complete panel. The panel may comprise an organosheet and / or a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich and / or a laminated construction. The panel may comprise a mass-reduced panel comprising a polymer material. The mass-reduced panel may comprise a glass-fiber material. The panel may comprise a mono-material construction; the monomaterial construction may comprise the base comprising a polymer material. The panel may comprise a polypropylene-based carrier. The panel may comprise features; the features comprise ribs and / or retainers. The panel may comprise a polymer material comprising a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich material. The panel may comprise a cover comprising a polyester artificial leather or a polyester fabric. The panel may comprise an organosheet and glass fiber with polypropylene resin.

[0009] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a head restraint structure. The head restraint structure may comprise a base and a reinforcement. The reinforcement may comprise an insert inside the base. The reinforcement may comprise at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a carbon composite material; (c) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (d) a MAEZIO material.

[0010] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a head restraint. The head restraint may comprise a head restraint structure, a support frame, a cover and an insert. The cover may be configured to cover the insert and the head restraint structure. The insert may comprise at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix. The insert may comprise a surface effect comprising at least one of (a) a structure; (b) a texture; (c) an engraving; (d) an embossing; (e) a sanding; (f) a thread; (g) a groove.

[0011] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising a valence. The valence may comprise a structure comprising a composite material and a cover. The structure may comprise a formed body and a reinforcement. The cover is at least one of (a) molded on the structure; (b) molded over the structure; (c) paint; (d) a laminate; (e) a film; (f) a foil; (g) a textured surface. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a panel; (b) a shield; (c) a cover; (d) an instrument panel; (e) a door panel; (f) a panel for a console; (g) a bolster; (h) a load floor; (i) a bin; (j) a door; (k) a seat shield.

[0012] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising an armrest; the armrest may comprise a structure comprising a composite material; the composite material may comprise at least one of (a) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (b) a plastic resin and a fiber reinforcement; (c) an organosheet; (d) a fiber scrim; (e) a matrix material reinforced by natural fibers; (f) a glass fiber composite; (g) a resin; (h) a thermoplastic resin; (i) a polyamide; (j) polypropylene; (k) polycarbonate; (1) a thermoplastic polyurethane, (m) a TEPEX material. The structure may comprise a C-shaped section. Thestructure may be prepared by a thermoforming process and / or a deep-draw process. The component may comprise a cover for the structure; the cover may comprise at least one of (a) expanded polypropylene (EPP); (b) expanded polycarbonate (EPC).

[0013] The present invention relates to a component configured for a seat for an interior of a vehicle comprising a carrier and an intermediate section provided for the carrier. The carrier with intermediate section may comprise at least one of a headrest assembly, an armrest assembly, a seat panel and / or a seat back panel. The component may comprise a mass- reduced component. The component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The carrier and intermediate section may comprise the recyclable sub-assembly. The component may comprise a component assembly comprising the headrest assembly and / or the armrest assembly and / or seat panel and / or the seat back panel. The carrier and intermediate section may comprise the component assembly. The component assembly may comprise a composite material configured for mass reduction. The composite material may comprise at least one of an organosheet, a unidirectional tape, a unidirectional sheet, an expanded polymer. The component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable subassembly may comprise a composite material configured for recyclability. The composite material may comprise a reinforcement comprising fiber and a polymer material. The component assembly may comprise a polymer material configured for mass reduction. The component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise a polymer material configured for recyclability. The polymer material is selected from at least one of (a) polyamide group; (b) polycarbonate group; (c) polyester group; (d) polypropylene group. The polymer material may be selected from a group of polymer materials configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly; the polymer material configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly may be selected from a group of polymer materials comprising (a) polyamide group; (b) polycarbonate group; (c) polyester group; (d) polypropylene group. The group of polymer materials may comprise a mono-material for recyclability as a complete sub-assembly; the mono-material may comprise a single material group. The polyamide group may comprise at least one of polyamide, polyamide 6, polyamide 6 / 6, polyamide 10 / 10, polyamide 12, recycled polyamide, biobased polyamide, polyamide glass fiber, polyamide resin. The polycarbonate group may comprise at least one of polycarbonate, expanded polycarbonate, recycled polycarbonate, biobased polycarbonate, polycarbonate-polyester blends, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blends. The polyester group may comprise at least one of polyester fabric, polyester / plastic, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate. The polypropylene group may comprise at leastone of polypropylene, expanded polypropylene, polyolefin, thermoplastic polyolefin, polyethylene. The carrier may comprise a panel; the panel may comprise an organosheet. The organosheet may comprise a polymer material and at least one of continuous glass fiber, long glass fiber, continuous aramid fiber or long aramid fiber, continuous carbon fiber, long carbon fiber. The polymer material of the organosheet may comprise polypropylene resin, polyamide resin, polycarbonate resin. The carrier may comprise a base; the base may comprise a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for ribs and / or a copolyester or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for a retainer. A recyclable subassembly may comprise at least one of an organosheet: glass fiber with polypropylene resin and / or glass fiber with resin and / or polyamide resin and / or a polyester foam with a polyester non-woven material. A recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at least one of an organosheet or a polyester foam with a polyester non-woven material. The component may comprise material configured to be separated by disassembly from a recyclable subassembly; the material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable subassembly may comprise polyvinylchloride and / or polyurethane and / or synthetic leather and / or genuine leather. The component may comprise a sub-assembly configured to facilitate processing into a reusable material. The recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to remain assembled at end of life. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise materials configured to be disassembled together at end of life. The recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to be shredded or chopped for reuse of materials into recycled material. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material. The recyclable sub-assembly of the headrest assembly may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material. The recyclable sub-assembly of the armrest assembly may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material. The recyclable sub-assembly of the side panel may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material. The recyclable sub-assembly of the seat back panel may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material. The carrier may comprise a base and / or a panel and / or a substrate and / or a frame. The intermediate section for the carrier may comprise at least one of a connected section and / or an adjacent section and / or intermediate layer and / or a cover and / or a foam material and / or a spacer material and / or a spacer fabric material and / or a pad and / or a cushion. The component may comprise a cover. The component may comprise a headrest assembly; the carrier may comprise a frame; the intermediate section may comprise a pad. The headrest assembly may be configured to beassembled to the seat. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat; the mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the headrest assembly relative to the seat; the mechanism may comprise a slider mechanism. The support frame may comprise at least one notch and / or a molded notch for the mechanism. The frame may comprise a support frame configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat. The support frame may comprise a base member and an inner member. The inner member may comprise a frame member and / or an insert member. The support frame may comprise a base member formed on an insert member. The base member may be formed of a material and the insert member may be formed of composite material; the composite material of the insert member may be configured to provide adhesion with the material of the base member. The insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide adhesion with the base member. The reinforcement may comprise a cross-section; the cross-section may comprise at least one of (a) circular, (b) triangular, (c) rectangular, (d) polygonal, (e) L-shape, (f) T-shape, (g) H-shape, (h) dumbbell shape. The reinforcement may comprise a width and a thickness. The insert member may comprise a rod and / or a bar and / or a set of rods and / or a set of members. The insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod may have a generally rectangular section. The insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod may have a generally curved section. The insert member may comprise a rod having a center section and a set of edge sections; a set of ends may be provided at each edge section; the set of ends may comprise enlarged ends. The insert member may comprise a section comprising at least one of (a) circular, (b) triangular, (c) rectangular, (d) polygonal, (e) L-shape, (f) T-shape, (g) H-shape, (h) dumbbell shape, (i) ladder-shape. The insert member may comprise the set of ends connected by a connector section. The insert member may comprise a feature. The feature may comprise a set of ends at an edge section. The insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide retention within the base member. The feature may comprise a set of projections and / or a set of threads. The support frame may comprise a set of base members and a set of inner members. The inner members may comprise reinforcement members for the base members. The headrest assembly may comprise a mass-reduced headrest assembly comprising a composite material selected from the group comprising composite material. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a carbon-fiber material. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a glass-fiber material. The headrest assembly may comprise a composite material. The composite material may comprise continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material. The composite material may comprise unidirectional continuous fiber reinforcedthermoplastic composite material and / or a continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material. The composite material may comprise a carbon- fiber material and / or a polymer material. The composite material may comprise a polycarbonate material. The support frame may comprise a carbon fiber reinforced composite material. The component may comprise a cover; the cover may comprise at least one of leather or artificial leather. The component may comprise a pad; the pad may comprise a compressible material comprising polyolefin foam or a polyurethane foam or a spacer fabric or a cushion material. The polymer material may comprise an injection molded material and / or an extruded material. The support frame may comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material; the insert frame member may comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the support frame. The component may comprise an armrest assembly; the carrier may comprise a base; the intermediate section may comprise an insert within the base. The component may comprise a cover for the base. The insert may comprise a reinforcement. The armrest assembly may be configured to be assembled to a seat and / or a console and / or a trim panel. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to attach the armrest assembly to the seat; the mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the armrest assembly relative to the seat. The base of the armrest assembly may comprise a structural substrate. The base of the armrest assembly may comprise a shell; the shell may comprise a section; the section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement; the rigidifying arrangement may comprise a pattern. The insert may comprise a structural member. The armrest assembly may comprise a top section; the top section may comprise the intermediate section; the top section may comprise an intermediate material and a cover material; the intermediate material may comprise a foam material. The foam material may comprise a polyurethane foam; the foam material may be disassembled from a recyclable sub-assembly. The foam material may comprise a polyolefin foam; a recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the foam material. The foam material may comprise a polypropylene-based foam and / or a polyethylene foam. The cover material may comprise a polypropylene-based material and / or a polyester material. The cover material may comprise a foil material; the foil material may comprise a thermoplastic olefin. The cover material may comprise an expanded polypropylene material. The base and / or insert may comprise at least one of a long glass fiber material, a continuous glass fiber material a polymer material, a filament glass material, a composite material, a polymer consolidated composite laminate; a polypropylene-based woven glass fiber mat, a polyamide based woven glass fiber; a polypropylene based organosheet, a polyamid based organosheet. The armrest assembly maycomprise a mass-reduced armrest assembly comprising a composite material the group comprising composite material. The armrest assembly may comprise a recyclable subassembly; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise a base and an insert. The armrest assembly may comprise a molded material. The armrest assembly may comprise a back- molded material with features. The component may comprise injection-molded ribs formed out of a polymer material; the polymer material may comprise polypropylene and / or resin. The carrier may comprise a substrate. The intermediate section may comprise a reinforcement and / or an insert. The intermediate section may comprise a cover. The substrate may comprise a structural substrate and / or a base and / or a reinforcement. The substrate may comprise a panel; the panel may comprise a side panel and / or a seat back panel. The intermediate section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement for the panel. The rigidifying arrangement may comprise a pattern. The pattern may comprise a honeycomb pattern and / or a lamellar pattern. The reinforcement section may comprise a layered panel and / or a sandwich panel. The panel may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the panel and a cover. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the complete panel. The panel may comprise an organosheet and / or a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich and / or a laminated construction. The panel may comprise a mass-reduced panel comprising a material selected from the group comprising polymer material. The mass-reduced panel may comprise a glass-fiber material. The panel may comprise a mono-material construction; the mono-material construction may comprise the base comprising a polymer material. The panel may comprise a polypropylene-based carrier. The panel may comprise features; the features may comprise ribs and / or retainers. The features may comprise copolyester retainers attached to the panel; the retainers may be attached by at least one of adhesive, molding, welding. The panel may comprise a polypropylene-based carrier backmolded with features. The cover may comprise a polyester cover. The panel may comprise a polymer material comprising a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich material. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the cover. The panel may comprise a cover comprising a polyester artificial leather or a polyester fabric. The panel may comprise a cover comprising a polyvinyl chloride material or a polyurethane material; the recyclable sub-assembly may not comprise the cover. The panel may comprise an organosheet and glass fiber with polypropylene resin. The base may comprise a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin for ribs and retainer. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at least one of an organosheet; glass fiber with polypropylene resin and a polyester non-woven material or a polyethylene terephthalate foam with a polyester non-wovenmaterial. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the base and the insert and the cover. The seat may comprise a seat back. The seat may comprise a mass-reduced seat comprising a mass-reduced headrest assembly and / or a mass-reduced armrest assembly and / or a mass- reduced panel. The mass-reduced seat may comprise a carbon-fiber material and / or a glassfiber material. The seat may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly comprising seat back and recyclable sub-assembly of the headrest assembly and recyclable sub-assembly of the armrest assembly. The component may comprise material from at least one of a group of materials comprising PA polyamide; PP polypropylene; EPP expanded polypropylene; PC polycarbonate; EPC expanded polycarbonate; PES polyester (fabric); PET polyester (plastic) and / or polyethylene terephthalate; PBT polybutylene terephthalate; PO polyolefin; TPO thermoplastic polyolefin; PVC polyvinylchloride; PU polyurethane; CF carbon fiber; GF glass fiber, TEPEX, a composite material, a polymer material, a fabric and / or textile material, a spacer and / or a spacer fabric material and / or fabric material.FIGURES

[0014] FIGURE 1A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIGURE IB is schematic partial perspective view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIGURES 2A and 2B are schematic perspective views of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIGURES 3A and 3B are schematic perspective views of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIGURE 4 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIGURE 5 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIGURE 6 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as side panel of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIGURE 7A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIGURE 7B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIGURE 8A is schematic perspective view of a component for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURE 8B is schematic front view of a component for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIGURE 8C is schematic side view of a component for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIGURE 8D is schematic side view of a component for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURE 9A is schematic perspective view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURE 9B is schematic front view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURE 9C is schematic side view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIGURES 9D and 9E are schematic perspective views of components for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURE 10A is schematic perspective view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIGURE 10B is schematic front view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] FIGURE 10C is schematic side view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0034] FIGURES 10D and 10E are schematic perspective views of a component for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] FIGURE 11A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] FIGURE 11B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] FIGURE 11C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] FIGURE 12 A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] FIGURE 12B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIGURE 12C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] FIGURE 13 A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] FIGURE 13B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] FIGURE 13C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] FIGURE 14 A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] FIGURE 14B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] FIGURE 14C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] FIGURE 15 A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] FIGURE 15B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] FIGURE 15C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0050] FIGURE 16A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] FIGURE 16B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] FIGURE 16C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] FIGURE 17 A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] FIGURE 17B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0055] FIGURE 17C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] FIGURE 18A is schematic perspective exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0057] FIGURE 18B is schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0058] FIGURE 18C is schematic partial section perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] FIGURE 19 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] FIGURE 19A is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component shown as mechanism for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] FIGURES 20A through 20C are schematic front views of a vehicle interior component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] FIGURES 21 A through 21C are schematic detailed elevation views of a vehicle interior component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] FIGURES 22A through 22C are schematic detailed elevation section views of a vehicle interior component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0064] FIGURES 23A through 23C are schematic elevation side views of a vehicle interior component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] FIGURE 24A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0066] FIGURE 24B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] FIGURE 24C is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0068] FIGURE 25 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0069] FIGURE 26A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] FIGURES 26B through 26D are schematic side views of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0071] FIGURE 27 A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] FIGURE 27B is a schematic side view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] FIGURE 28A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0074] FIGURE 28B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0075] FIGURE 29A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0076] FIGURE 29B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0077] FIGURE 29C is a schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] FIGURE 30 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] FIGURES 31A and 3 IB are schematic perspective views of a component for an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0080] FIGURE 31C is a schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0081] FIGURE 3 ID is a schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0082] FIGURE 32 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] FIGURE 33A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0084] FIGURE 33B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0085] FIGURE 34A is a schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0086] FIGURE 34B is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0087] FIGURE 35 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a vehicle seat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0088] FIGURE 36A is a schematic rear view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0089] FIGURE 36B is a schematic front view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0090] FIGURE 37 A is a schematic rear view of a component for a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0091] FIGURE 37B is a schematic front view of a component for a panel according to an exemplary embodiment

[0092] FIGURE 38 A is a schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0093] FIGURE 38B is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0094] FIGURE 39A is schematic perspective view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0095] FIGURE 39B is schematic exploded perspective view of a component shown as a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0096] FIGURE 39C is schematic perspective view of a component for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0097] FIGURES 39D and 39E are schematic perspective views of a component for a head restraint system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0098] FIGURE 40A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0099] FIGURE 40B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0100] FIGURE 40C is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as an armrest according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0101] FIGURE 41 A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0102] FIGURE 41B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0103] FIGURE 41C is a schematic rear view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0104] FIGURE 41D is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0105] FIGURE 42 is a schematic composite perspective view of a vehicle seat with recyclable sub-assemblies according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0106] FIGURE 43A is a schematic flow diagram of a method of producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0107] FIGURE 43 B is a schematic flow diagram of a method of producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.DESCRIPTION

[0108] Referring to FIGURES 1A-1B, a vehicle V providing an interior I with interior components is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As indicated in FIGURES IB and 2A-2B, the interior I may comprise components such as a seat ST, an instrument panel IP, a door panel DP, an operator control shown as a steering wheel SW, along with other components such as a console / floor console and other trim / trim panels.

[0109] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 4, 5 and 6, the vehicle interior may comprise a seat ST with components such as a seat base SB, seat cushion SC, seat back panel SK / C, seat / side panel SV / C, armrest assembly AR / C and head restraint system shown as comprising a headrest assembly HR / C. See also FIGURES 25, 32, 35 and 42.

[0110] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A- 10E, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C, 19, 24A-24C, 25, 26A-26D, 27A-27B, 28A-28B, 29A-29C, 30, 31A-31D, 32, 33A-3B, 34A- 34B, 35, 36A-36B, 37A-37B and 38A-38B, components in the vehicle interior including components for seat ST such as headrest assembly HR, armrest assembly AR, side panel / assembly SV and seat back panel / assembly SK may be produced from materials such as composite materials / polymer materials intended to provide reduced mass / weight as well as to provide suitable strength and durability for use; the seat ST may be provided as a mass- reduced seat. See FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 25, 32, 35 and 42.

[0111] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 36A-36B, 39A-39E, 40A- 40C, 41A-41D, 42 and 43A-43B, at the end of use / life of components in the vehicle interior, certain of the materials of the components in the vehicle interior including components for seat ST such as headrest assembly HR, armrest assembly AR, side panel / assembly SV and seat back panel / assembly SK may be processed / disassembled for recycling and re-use.

[0112] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 4, 7A- 7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C and 19, the component shown as headrest assembly HR / C may comprise a carrier shown as comprising a frame HF with a support frame SF and an intermediate section shown as comprising a headrest section with a core / structure HC with a pad / cushion HP and a cover / cover material TX. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4, 8A-8D, 11 A- 11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C and 39A-39E, the support frame SF of the headrest assembly HR may comprise a composite structure of a base frame NM and a reinforcement shown as an inner / insert frame member NR; the baseframe member NM may comprise a material such as a polymer material; the inner / insert frame member NR may comprise a material such as a polymer material / composite material (e.g. with carbon-fiber, glass-fiber, etc.); base frame member NM may be formed onto inner / insert frame member NR (e.g. in a molding process).

[0113] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C and 18A-18C, the inner / insert frame member arrangement NR of the selected polymer / composite material may comprise any of a variety of structural forms / shapes (e.g. as a member, rod, etc.) and features configured as a section to provide suitable strength and durability as well as to provide suitable adhesion with and within the base frame member NM. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11A-11C, frame member NR within base member NM may comprise a generally flat form such as a bar of a generally rectangular section with pointed end features. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 12A- 12C, frame member NR within base member NM may comprise a generally flat form such as a bar of a generally rectangular section. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 13A-13C, frame member NR within base member NM may comprise a set of rods each of a generally rectangular / square section. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 14A-14C, frame member NR within base member NM may comprise a set of generally circular rods. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 15A-15C, frame member NR within base member NM may comprise a set of rods each of a generally diamond- shaped section. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 16A-16C and 17A-17C, frame member NR within base member NM may comprise a section of a dumbbell shape with a central connector for a set of enlarged ends. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 18A-18C, frame member NR within base member NM may comprise a set of generally circular rods comprising features shown as projections / threads to facilitate retention.

[0114] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4, 8A-8D, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C and 39A-39E, the component shown as headrest assembly HR / C may comprise a carrier / frame HF with a base member NM and a reinforcement / intermediate section such as frame member arrangement NR within base member NM.

[0115] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 19, 19A, 20A-20C, 21A-21C, 22A-22C and 23A-23C, the component shown as headrest assembly HR / C may comprise a mechanism shown as height adjustment mechanism HM configured to permit movement and adjustment of the height of the headrest relative to the seat; the mechanism may comprise a guide member GB and a guide frame GF; themechanism may be separated / disassembled from the headrest assembly HR for the recyclable sub-assembly HRr. See FIGURES 39A-39E and 42.

[0116] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 24A- 24C, 25, 26A-26D, 27A-27B, 28A-28B, 29A-29C, 30 and 31A-31D, the component shown as armrest assembly AR / C may comprise a carrier shown as base / shell RB and an intermediate section that may comprise a reinforcement / insert RN and a cover RC and a cushion / pad of an intermediate material FM (e.g. foam, spacer fabric, etc.). As indicated schematically in FIGURES 24A-24C, 26A-26D and 27A-27B, armrest assembly AR may comprise a mechanism shown as pivot mechanism PM for connection to the seat and to facilitate pivoting movement of the armrest relative to the seat. See also FIGURE 25.

[0117] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 24A- 24C, 28A-28B, 29A-29B, 30 and 31A-31D, armrest assembly AR / C may comprise a carrier and intermediate section of a polymer material; carrier shown as base / shell RB may be configured with an intermediate section / reinforcement with structural element such as a formed insert RN and / or with a reinforcing structure NS shown as comprising a pattern of reinforcing elements (e.g. honeycomb structure); a cushion / pad of an intermediate material FM (e.g. foam, spacer fabric, etc.) may be provided along with a cover RC and / or cover layer TX may be provided on the base / shell RB.

[0118] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 6, 32, 33A-3B, 34A-34B, 35, 36A-36B, 37A-37B and 38A-38B, the component shown as a panel such as side panel / assembly SV or seat back panel / assembly SK may comprise a carrier / structure such as a substrate VM or reinforcement RN and an intermediate section such as comprising features such as retainers shown as connectors VX and cover material TX. As indicated schematically, the component shown as seat / side panel SV or seat back panel SK may comprise a carrier of a polymer material such as a formed panel and / or a panel with a with a sandwich / layer construction VM; the intermediate section may comprise a reinforcement / insert RN shown as comprising a reinforcing structure NS shown as comprising a pattern of reinforcing elements (e.g. honeycomb structure).

[0119] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 36A-36B, 37A-37B, 39A- 39E, 40A-40C, 41A-41D, 42 and 43A-43B, according to a process / method employed at the end of use / life of components in the vehicle interior, certain of the materials of the components in the vehicle interior including components for seat ST such as headrest assembly HR, armrest assembly AR, side panel / assembly SV and seat back panel / assembly SK may be processed / disassembled for recycling and re-use; as indicated schematically,components may be disassembled into recyclable sub- assemblies shown as for headrest assembly HRr, armrest sub-assembly ARr, side panel assembly SVr and seat back panel SKr; materials from each recyclable sub-assembly such as polymer / plastic materials and other / composite materials may be collectively processed (e.g. by material group / groups, material type, etc.) into recycled materials for reuse (such as for production of future components). See FIGURES 42 and 43A-43B and TABLE B.

[0120] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 36A-36B, 37A-37B, 39A-39E, 40A-40C, 41A-41D, 42 and 43A-43B, recyclable sub-assemblies of each component may be selectively disassembled from each component (rather than completely disassembled); recyclable subassemblies may comprise materials from similar groups that may be processed together (e.g. separated, shredded, re-constituted, etc.) without complete disassembly of the sub-assembly; for polymer materials, groups of materials for recyclable sub-assemblies may comprise the polyamide group, polycarbonate group, polyester group, polypropylene group (e.g. groups / materials that are compatible and / or may remain together in combination / without further disassembly from the component for processing as recyclable material); other materials such as polyvinylchloride and / or polyurethane as well as metals, etc. that may not be in a group / compatible to permit processing together in combination as the recyclable subassembly may be disassembled from the component (e.g. separated for processing). See FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 36A-36B, 39A-39E, 40A-40C, 41A-41D.

[0121] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B, 6, 36A-36B, 37A-37B, 41A-41D, 42 and 43A-43B, for certain components the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise materials from the complete assembly of the component; for example, the entire side panel / panel assembly SV / SVr may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly of polymer materials (e.g. compatible groups of polymers); the entire seat back panel / assembly SK / SKr may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly of polymer materials (e.g. compatible groups of polymers). See also TABLE B.

[0122] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 39A-39E, 40A-40C, 42 and 43A-43B, for certain components the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise materials from less than the complete assembly of the component; for example, the armrest assembly AR may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly ARr of polymer materials (e.g. compatible groups of polymers) by disassembly of a mechanism PM (e.g. comprising metals and other materials) from the component, the headrest assembly HR may comprise a recyclable subassembly HRr of polymer / composite materials (e.g compatible materials) by disassembly of a mechanism HM and / or core HC and pad HP and cover TC for the headrest (e.g other thancompatible materials for recycling in combination). According to an exemplary embodiment, each component may be configured for efficient disassembly into a recyclable sub-assembly that comprises substantially the assembly of the component (e.g. by separation of compatible materials that may remain together for processing / recycling from other materials to be given separate disposition such as separate recycling, disposal, etc.). See FIGURES 42 and 43A- 43B and TABLE B.Exemplary Embodiments - A

[0123] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A- 15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C, 19, 24A-24C, 25, 26A-26D, 27A-27B, 28A-28B, 29A- 29C, 30, 31A-31D, 32, 33A-3B, 34A-34B, 35, 36A-36B, 37A-37B and 38A-38B, a component C configured for a seat ST for an interior I of a vehicle V may comprise a carrier and an intermediate section provided for the carrier. The carrier with intermediate section may comprise at least one of a headrest assembly HR / C, an armrest assembly AR / C, a seat / side panel SV / C and / or a seat back panel SK / C.

[0124] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6 and 42, the component may comprise a mass-reduced component; the component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the carrier and intermediate section may comprise the recyclable sub-assembly; the component may comprise a component assembly comprising the headrest assembly HR and / or the armrest assembly AR and / or seat panel SV and / or the seat back panel SK; the carrier and intermediate section may comprise the component assembly; the component assembly may comprise a composite material configured for mass reduction; the composite material may comprise at least one of an organosheet, a unidirectional tape, a unidirectional sheet, an expanded polymer.

[0125] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6 and 42, the component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable subassembly may comprise a composite material configured for recyclability; the composite material may comprise a reinforcement comprising fiber and a polymer material; the component assembly may comprise a polymer material configured for mass reduction; the component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise a polymer material configured for recyclability. See also TABLE B.

[0126] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment, the polymer material may be selected from at least one of (a) polyamide group; (b) polycarbonate group; (c) polyester group; (d) polypropylene group. The polymer material may be selected from a group of polymer materials configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly; the polymer material configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly may be selected from a group of polymer materials comprising (a) polyamide group; (b) polycarbonate group; (c) polyester group; (d) polypropylene group. The group of polymer materials may comprise a monomaterial for recyclability as a complete sub-assembly; the mono-material may comprise a single material group. The polyamide group may comprise at least one of polyamide,polyamide 6, polyamide 6 / 6, polyamide 10 / 10, polyamide 12, recycled polyamide, biobased polyamide, polyamide glass fiber, polyamide resin. The polycarbonate group may comprise at least one of polycarbonate, expanded polycarbonate, recycled polycarbonate, biobased polycarbonate, polycarbonate-polyester blends, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blends. The polyester group may comprise at least one of polyester fabric, polyester / plastic, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate. The polypropylene group may comprise at least one of polypropylene, expanded polypropylene, polyolefin, thermoplastic polyolefin, polyethylene.

[0127] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment, the selection / combination of materials as well as the configuration / arrangement of the carrier / base / frame and reinforcement / intermediate section of components is intended to facilitate suitable performance including strength and durability (e.g. load bearing strength, structural integrity, load-sharing sections, reinforcement, ability to withstand high-load conditions, etc.) as well as reduced-mass and improved efficiency of recyclability of materials. As indicated schematically, selection / combination of materials and / or features (such as mechanical elements / design, surface effect, etc.) may be provided to facilitate cohesion and / or adhesion (e.g. to reduce unintended relative movement / re-positioning of elements within formed component / assemblies, such as movement / sliding / slipping at shear surfaces / interfaces, and to improve performance and relative strength / durability in potential failure modes / effects, etc.). For example, cohesion may be facilitated by selection of materials and processing operations, such as molding of similar materials for suitable bonding (e.g. selection / combination into mono-material assemblies of multiple components / elements for enhancement of strength, structural integrity, etc.), co-molding, back-molding, etc. as well as features of design such as to provide mechanical strength within the component; adhesion may be facilitated by selection of materials and processing operations as well as features of design, including treatment of surfaces, enlargement / variations in section, projections / engagement areas, extended surface areas, surface effect design with texture / engagement, reinforcement patterns, insert design / shape and form, etc.). See generally FIGURES 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C, 21A-21C, 22A-22C, 31A-31D, 33A-33B, 34A-34B and 38A- 38B. According to an exemplary embodiment as indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A- 3B, 4, 5, 6, 19, 24A, 25, 30, 32, 33A-33B, 35, 36A-36B and 37A-37B, the selection / combination of materials as well as the configuration / arrangement of the carrier / base / frame and reinforcement / intermediate section of components such as the headrestassembly HR and the armrest assembly AR and the panels SV / SK will facilitate intended suitable performance including strength and durability and as reduced-mass and improved efficiency of recyclability of materials for the seat ST. See also FIGURES 42 and 43A-43B.

[0128] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 19, 24A-24C, 25, 26A-26D, 27A-27B, 28A-28B, 29A-29C, 30, 31A-31D, 32, 33A-3B, 34A-34B, 35, 36A-36B, 37A-37B and 38A-38B, the carrier may comprise a panel; the panel may comprise an organosheet. The organosheet may comprise a polymer material and at least one of continuous glass fiber, long glass fiber, continuous aramid fiber, long aramid fiber, continuous carbon fiber, long carbon fiber; the polymer material of the organosheet may comprise polypropylene resin, polyamide resin, polycarbonate resin; the carrier may comprise a base; the base may comprise a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for ribs and / or a copolyester or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for a retainer.

[0129] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment, a recyclable subassembly may comprise at least one of an organosheet, glass fiber with polypropylene resin and / or glass fiber with resin and / or polyamide resin and / or a polyester foam with a polyester non-woven material. A recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at least one of an organosheet or a polyester foam with a polyester non-woven material.

[0130] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 42 and 43A-43B (method / process), the component may comprise material configured to be separated by disassembly from a recyclable sub-assembly; the material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise polyvinylchloride and / or polyurethane and / or synthetic leather and / or genuine leather; the component may comprise a sub-assembly configured to facilitate processing into a reusable material; the recyclable subassembly may be configured to remain assembled at end of life; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise materials configured to be disassembled together at end of life; the recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to be shredded or chopped for reuse of materials into recycled material; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material.

[0131] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 36A-36B, 37A-37B, 39A-39E, 40A-40C, 41A-41D, 42 and 43A-43B, the recyclable sub-assembly HRr of the headrest assembly HR may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material; the recyclable sub-assembly ARr of the armrest assembly AR may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material; the recyclable sub-assembly SVrof the side panel SV may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material; the recyclable sub-assembly SKr of the seat back panel SK may comprise at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material. See also TABLE B.

[0132] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 19, 24A-24C, 25, 26A-26D, 27A-27B, 28A-28B, 29A-29C, 30, 31A-31D, 32, 33A-3B, 34A-34B, 35, 36A-36B, 37A-37B and 38A-38B, the carrier may comprise a base and / or a panel and / or a substrate and / or a frame; the intermediate section for the carrier may comprise at least one of a connected section and / or an adjacent section and / or intermediate layer and / or a cover and / or a foam material and / or a spacer material and / or a spacer fabric material and / or a pad and / or a cushion; the component may comprise a cover.

[0133] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 19, 39A-39E and 42, the component may comprise a headrest assembly HR; the carrier may comprise a frame; the intermediate section may comprise a pad; the headrest assembly HR may be configured to be assembled to the seat.

[0134] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 19, 19A, 20A-20C, 21A-21C, 22A-22C and 23A-23C, the component may comprise a mechanism HM configured to attach the headrest assembly HR to the seat; the mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the headrest assembly HR relative to the seat; the mechanism may comprise a slider mechanism; the support frame may comprise at least one notch and / or a molded notch for the mechanism; the frame may comprise a support frame configured to attach the headrest assembly HR to the seat. As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one notch is provided in the base member; the inner / insert member is not provided with a notch.

[0135] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 7A-7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C, the support frame SF of the headrest assembly HR may comprise a base member NM and an inner member NR; the inner member may comprise a frame member and / or an insert member; the support frame may comprise a base member formed on an insert member; the base member may be formed of a material and the insert member may be formed of composite material; the composite material of the insert member may be configured to provide adhesion with the material of the base member; the insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide adhesion with the base member; the reinforcementmay comprise a cross-section; the cross-section may comprise at least one of (a) circular, (b) triangular, (c) rectangular, (d) polygonal, (e) L-shape, (f) T-shape, (g) H-shape, (h) dumbbell shape. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C and 18A-18C, the reinforcement may comprise a width and a thickness; the insert member may comprise a rod and / or a bar and / or a set of rods and / or a set of members; the insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod may have a generally rectangular section; the insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod may have a generally curved section; the insert member may comprise a rod having a center section and a set of edge sections; a set of ends may be provided at each edge section; the set of ends may comprise enlarged ends; the insert member may comprise a section comprising at least one of (a) circular, (b) triangular, (c) rectangular, (d) polygonal, (e) L-shape, (f) T-shape, (g) Id- shape, (h) dumbbell shape, (i) ladder-shape. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11A- 11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A-15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C and 18A-18C, the insert member may comprise the set of ends connected by a connector section; the insert member may comprise a feature; the feature may comprise a set of ends at an edge section; the insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide retention within the base member; the feature may comprise a set of projections and / or a set of threads; the support frame may comprise a set of base members and a set of inner members; the inner members may comprise reinforcement members for the base members.

[0136] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 4, 7A- 7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 39A-39E and 42, the headrest assembly HR may comprise a mass-reduced headrest assembly HR comprising a composite material selected from the group comprising composite material; the mass-reduced headrest assembly HR may comprise a carbon-fiber material; the mass-reduced headrest assembly HR may comprise a glass-fiber material; the headrest assembly HR may comprise a composite material; the composite material may comprise continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material; the composite material may comprise unidirectional continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material and / or a continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material; the composite material may comprise a carbon-fiber material and / or a polymer material; the composite material may comprise a polycarbonate material; the support frame may comprise a carbon fiber reinforced composite material; the component may comprise a cover; the cover may comprise at least one of leather or artificial leather; the component may comprise a pad; the pad may comprise a compressible material comprising polyolefin foam or a polyurethane foam or a spacer fabric or a cushion material; the polymer material may comprise an injectionmolded material and / or an extruded material; the support frame may comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material; the insert frame member may comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material; the recyclable sub-assembly HRr may comprise the support frame. See also FIGURES 43A-43B.

[0137] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 5, 24A- 24C, 25, 26A-26D, 27A-27B, 28A-28B, 29A-29C, 30, 31A-31D, 40A-40C and 42, the component may comprise an armrest assembly AR; the carrier may comprise a base; the intermediate section may comprise an insert within the base; the component may comprise a cover for the base; the insert may comprise a reinforcement; the armrest assembly AR may be configured to be assembled to a seat and / or a console and / or a trim panel; the component may comprise a mechanism configured to attach the armrest assembly AR to the seat; the mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the armrest assembly AR relative to the seat; the base of the armrest assembly AR may comprise a structural substrate; the base of the armrest assembly AR may comprise a shell; the shell may comprise a section; the section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement; the rigidifying arrangement may comprise a pattern; the insert may comprise a structural member; the armrest assembly AR may comprise a top section; the top section may comprise the intermediate section; the top section may comprise an intermediate material and a cover material; the intermediate material may comprise a foam material; the foam material may comprise a polyurethane foam; the foam material may be disassembled from a recyclable sub-assembly ARr; the foam material may comprise a polyolefin foam; a recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the foam material; the foam material may comprise a polyethylene foam and / or polypropylene-based material (firm / hard or soft material); the cover material may comprise a polypropylene-based material and / or a polyester material; the cover material may comprise a foil material; the foil material may comprise a thermoplastic olefin (providing any of a variety of visual / texture and decorative / surface effects including smooth, grain, leather-effect, etc.); the cover material may comprise an expanded polypropylene material; the base and / or insert may comprise at least one of a long glass fiber material, a continuous glass fiber material, a polymer material, a filament glass material, a composite material, a polymer consolidated composite laminate; a polypropylene-based woven glass fiber mat, a polyamide based woven glass fiber; a polypropylene based organosheet, a polyamid based organosheet; the armrest assembly AR may comprise a mass-reduced armrest assembly AR comprising a composite material from a group comprising composite material and / or polymer material; the armrest assembly AR may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly ARr; the recyclable sub-assembly ARr may comprise abase and an insert; the armrest assembly AR may comprise a molded material; the armrest assembly AR may comprise a back-molded material with features; the component may comprise injection-molded ribs formed out of a polymer material; the polymer material may comprise polypropylene, polyamide, etc. as a resin / plastic material. See also FIGURES 43 A- 43B.

[0138] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 5, 32, 33A-3B, 34A-34B, 35, 36A-36B, 37A-37B, 38A-38B, 41A-41D and 42, the carrier for seat panel SV or seat back panel SK may comprise a substrate; the intermediate section may comprise a reinforcement and / or an insert; the intermediate section may comprise a cover; the substrate may comprise a structural substrate and / or a base and / or a reinforcement; the substrate may comprise a panel; the panel may comprise a seat panel SV and / or a seat back panel SK; the seat panel may comprise a side panel; the intermediate section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement for the panel; the rigidifying arrangement may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a honeycomb pattern and / or a lamellar pattern; the reinforcement section may comprise a layered panel and / or a sandwich panel; the panel may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the panel and a cover; the recyclable sub-assembly of the side / seat panel SVr and / or the recyclable assembly of the seat back panel SKr may comprise the complete panel; the panel may comprise an organosheet and / or a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich and / or a laminated construction; the panel may comprise a mass-reduced panel comprising a material selected from the group comprising polymer material; the mass-reduced panel may comprise a glass-fiber material; the panel may comprise a mono-material construction; the mono-material construction may comprise the base comprising a polymer material; the panel may comprise a polypropylene- based carrier; the panel may comprise features; the features may comprise ribs and / or retainers; the features may comprise copolyester retainers attached to the panel; the retainers may be attached by at least one of adhesive, molding, welding; the panel may comprise a polypropylene-based carrier backmolded with features; the cover may comprise a polyester cover; the panel may comprise a polymer material comprising a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich material; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the cover; the panel may comprise a cover comprising a polyester artificial leather or a polyester fabric; the panel may comprise a cover comprising a polyvinyl chloride material or a polyurethane material; the recyclable sub-assembly may not comprise the cover; the panel may comprise an organosheet and glass fiber with polypropylene resin; the base may comprise a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin for ribs and retainer; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at leastone of an organosheet; glass fiber with polypropylene resin and a polyester non-woven material or a polyethylene terephthalate foam with a polyester non-woven material; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the base and the insert and the cover. See FIGURES 43A-43B.

[0139] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 3A-3B and 42, the seat may comprise a seat back; the seat may comprise a mass-reduced seat comprising a mass-reduced headrest assembly HR and / or a mass-reduced armrest assembly AR and / or a mass-reduced panel; the mass-reduced seat may comprise a carbon-fiber material and / or a glass-fiber material; the seat may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly comprising side panel SVr and / or seat back panel SKr and recyclable sub-assembly of the headrest assembly HRr and recyclable sub-assembly of the armrest assembly ARr. See also FIGURE 43A-43B.

[0140] The component may comprise material from at least one of a group of materials comprising PA polyamide; PP polypropylene; EPP expanded polypropylene; PC polycarbonate; EPC expanded polycarbonate; PES polyester (fabric); PET polyester (plastic) and / or polyethylene terephthalate; PBT polybutylene terephthalate; PO polyolefin; TPO thermoplastic polyolefin; PVC polyvinylchloride; PU polyurethane; CF carbon fiber; GF glass fiber, a TEPEX material, a MAEZIO material, a composite material, a polymer material, a fabric and / or textile material, a spacer and / or a spacer fabric material and / or fabric material. See also TABLE B.

[0141] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a head restraint structure; the head restraint structure may comprise a base and a reinforcement; the reinforcement may comprise an insert inside the base; the reinforcement may comprise at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a carbon composite material; (c) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (d) a MAEZIO material.

[0142] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a head restraint; the head restraint may comprise a head restraint structure, a support frame, a cover and an insert; the cover may be configured to cover the insert and the head restraint structure; the insert may comprise at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; the insert may comprise a surface effect comprising at least one of (a) a structure; (b) a texture; (c) an engraving; (d) an embossing; (e) a sanding; (f) a thread; (g) a groove.

[0143] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle may comprise a panel such as a valence; the valence may comprise astructure comprising a composite material and a cover; the structure may comprise a formed body and a reinforcement; the cover may be at least one of (a) molded on the structure; (b) molded over the structure; (c) paint; (d) a laminate; (e) a film; (f) a foil; (g) a textured surface; the component may comprise at least one of (a) a panel; (b) a shield; (c) a cover; (d) an instrument panel; (e) a door panel; (f) a panel for a console; (g) a bolster; (h) a load floor; (i) a bin; (j) a door; (k) a seat shield.

[0144] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise an armrest; the armrest may comprise a structure comprising a composite material; the composite material may comprise at least one of (a) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (b) a plastic resin and a fiber reinforcement; (c) an organosheet; (d) a fiber scrim; (e) a matrix material reinforced by natural fibers; (f) a glass fiber composite; (g) a resin; (h) a thermoplastic resin; (i) a polyamide; (j) polypropylene; (k) polycarbonate; (1) a thermoplastic polyurethane. The structure may comprise a C-shaped section. The structure may be prepared by a thermoforming process and / or a deep-draw process. The component may comprise a cover for the structure; the cover may comprise at least one of (a) expanded polypropylene (EPP); (b) expanded polycarbonate (EPC).Exemplary Embodiments - B

[0145] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 3A-3B, 4, 5, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15A- 15C, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C, 19, 24A-24C, 25, 26A-26D, 27A-27B, 28A-28B, 29A- 29C, 30, 31A-31D, 32, 33A-3B, 34A-34B, 35, 36A-36B, 37A-37B and 38A-38B, a component configured for a seat for an interior of a vehicle may comprise a carrier and an intermediate section provided for the carrier; the carrier with intermediate section may comprise at least one of a headrest assembly HR, an armrest assembly AR, a seat / side panel SV and / or a seat back panel SK; the component may comprise the headrest assembly and / or the armrest assembly and / or seat panel and / or the seat back panel; the component may comprise a mass-reduced component; the mass-reduced component may comprise a weight- reduced component; the mass-reduced component may comprise a lightweight component; the component may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly; the carrier and intermediate section may comprise the recyclable sub-assembly; the component may comprise a component assembly comprising the headrest assembly and / or the armrest assembly and / or seat panel and / or the seat back panel; the carrier and the intermediate section may comprise the component assembly; the component assembly may comprise a polymer material configured for mass reduction; the component assembly may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly comprising at least one of a headrest assembly HRr, an armrest assembly ARr, a seat / side panel SVr and / or a seat back panel SKr; the component may comprise a recyclable subassembly; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise a polymer material configured for recyclability. See also FIGURES 39A-39E, 40A-40C, 41A-41D, 42 and 43A-43B.

[0146] The polymer material may be selected from a group of polymer materials. The polymer material may be selected from at least one of (a) a polyamide group; (b) a polycarbonate group; (c) a polyester group; (d) a polypropylene group. The polymer material may be selected from a group of polymer materials configured for recyclability as a subassembly. The polymer material configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly may be selected from a group of polymer materials comprising (a) polyamide group; (b) polycarbonate group; (c) polyester group; (d) polypropylene group. The group of polymer materials may comprise a mono-material for recyclability as a complete sub-assembly. The polyester group may comprise at least one of polyester fabric, polyester / plastic, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate. The polypropylene group may comprise at least one of polypropylene, expanded polypropylene, polyolefin, thermoplastic polyolefin. Thepolymer material may comprise polyvinylchloride. The polymer material may comprise polyurethane.

[0147] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable subassembly according to a method / process. See FIGURES 42 and 43A-43B. The material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise polyvinylchloride and / or polyurethane. The component may comprise a sub-assembly configured to facilitate processing into a reusable material. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise materials of a type of polymer. The recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to be disassembled at end of use. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise materials configured to be disassembled together at end of use. The recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to be shredded for reuse. The recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to be shredded for reuse of materials into recycled material. The recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to be shredded for reuse of materials into recycled material comprising a monomaterial. The recyclable sub-assembly may be configured to be shredded for reuse of materials into recycled material comprising a polymer material.

[0148] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the carrier may comprise a base. The carrier may comprise a panel. The carrier may comprise a substrate. The carrier may comprise a frame. The intermediate section may comprise a cover. The intermediate section may comprise an intermediate layer. The intermediate section may comprise an intermediate material. The intermediate section may comprise a foam material and / or a spacer material. The intermediate section may comprise at least one of a foam material, a spacer layer, a spacer material, a spacer fabric, a pad, a cushion. The component may comprise a cover.

[0149] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the component may comprise a headrest assembly; the carrier may comprise a frame; the intermediate section may comprise a pad. The headrest assembly may be configured to be assembled to the seat. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat. The mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the headrest assembly relative to the seat. The mechanism may comprise a slider mechanism. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to facilitate movement of the headrest relative to the support frame. The frame may comprise a support frame configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat. The support frame may comprise a base member. The support frame may comprise a base member and an inner member. The inner member may comprise a frame member. The inner member may comprise an insert member. The support frame may comprise the basemember formed on the insert member. The base member may be formed of a material and the insert member may be formed of composite material; the material of the base member may be configured to provide adhesion with the composite material of the insert member. The insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide adhesion with the base member. The insert member may comprise a rod. The insert member may comprise a set of rods. The insert member may comprise a generally flat rod. The insert member may comprise a rod having a rectangular section. The insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod may have a generally rectangular section. The insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod may have a generally circular section. The insert member may comprise a set of rods; each rod may have a generally diamond-shaped section. The insert member may comprise a generally flat rod having a uniform section. The insert member may comprise a rod having a center section and a set of edge sections; a set of ends may be provided at each edge section. The set of ends may comprise enlarged ends. The insert member may comprise a section comprising at least one of a T-shape, H-shape, dumbbell-shape, ladder shape. The center section may comprise a rectangular cross-section. The insert member may comprise a section comprising a center section and edge sections for the set of ends. The center section may comprise a connector for the set of ends. The insert member may comprise a set of ends connected by a connector section. The insert member may comprise a feature. The feature may comprise a set of ends at an edge section. The feature may comprise an enlarged section. The insert member may comprise a feature configured to provide retention within the base member. The feature may comprise a set of projections. The feature may comprise a set of flanges. The feature may comprise a set of threads. The feature may comprise a set of ribs. The support frame may comprise a set of base members and a set of inner members. The inner members may comprise inner frame members within the set of base members. The inner members may comprise insert frame members for the set of base members. The support frame may comprise a set of inner members formed on the set of base members. The inner members may comprise reinforcement members for the base members. The headrest assembly may comprise a material selected from a group comprising polymer material. The headrest assembly may comprise a mass-reduced headrest assembly comprising a material selected from the group comprising polymer material. The mass- reduced headrest assembly may comprise a carbon-fiber material. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a glass-fiber material. The headrest assembly may comprise a composite material. The composite material may comprise continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material. The composite material may compriseunidirectional continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material. The composite material may comprise continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material. The composite material may comprise a carbon-fiber material. The composite material may comprise a polymer material. The composite material may comprise a polycarbonate material. The composite material may comprise continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite unidirectional sheet. The support frame may comprise a carbon fiber reinforced composite material. The support frame may comprise a carbon fiber reinforced composite unidirectional material. The component may comprise a cover; the cover may comprise at least one of leather or artificial leather. The component may comprise a pad. The pad may comprise a compressible material comprising polyolefin foam or a polyurethane foam or a spacer fabric. The support frame may comprise a set of legs. The support frame may comprise a set of housings. The support frame may comprise a polymer material. The polymer material may comprise a polycarbonate material. The polymer material may comprise a composite material. The polymer material may comprise an injection molded material. The support frame may comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material. The insert frame member may comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material. The headrest may comprise a pad and a cover; the cover may comprise a polymer material. The cover may comprise an artificial leather material. The pad may comprise a polyurethane foam. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the support frame. The headrest assembly may comprise a head restraint system comprising the headrest assembly.

[0150] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the component may comprise an armrest assembly; the carrier may comprise a base; the intermediate section may comprise an insert within the base. The component may comprise a cover for the base. The insert may comprise a reinforcement. The armrest assembly may be configured to be assembled to the seat. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to attach the armrest assembly to the seat. The mechanism may be configured to facilitate movement of the armrest assembly relative to the seat. The mechanism may comprise a pivot mechanism. The base of the armrest assembly may comprise a substrate. The base of the armrest assembly may comprise a structural substrate. The base of the armrest assembly may comprise a shell. The shell of the armrest assembly may comprise a structural substrate. The shell may comprise a section. The section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement. The rigidifying arrangement may comprise a honeycomb pattern. The insert may comprise a structural member. The insert may comprise a structural form. The insert may comprise a structural member. The armrest assembly may comprise a top section. The top section may comprise a foammaterial. The top section may comprise a foam material and a cover material. The top section may comprise an intermediate material. The top section may comprise the intermediate material and a cover material. The intermediate material may comprise a foam material. The foam material may comprise a polyurethane foam; the foam material may be disassembled from the recyclable sub-assembly. The foam material may comprise a polyolefin foam; the recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the foam material. The foam material may comprise a polypropylene-based foam. The cover material may comprise a polypropylene-based material. The cover material may comprise a polyester material. The cover material may comprise a polyethylene terephthalate material. The cover material may comprise a polyethylene terephthalate material comprising an artificial leather. The cover material may comprise a foil material. The foil material may comprise a thermoplastic olefin. The cover material may comprise an expanded polypropylene material. The base and / or insert may comprise a polymer material. The base and / or insert may comprise a glass fiber material. The base and / or insert may comprise at least one of a glass fiber material, a polymer material, a filament glass material, a composite material, a polymer consolidated composite laminate; a polypropylene-based woven glass fiber mat, a polyamide based woven glass fiber. The armrest assembly may comprise a material selected from a group comprising polymer material. The armrest assembly may comprise a mass-reduced armrest assembly comprising a material selected from the group comprising polymer material. The mass- reduced armrest assembly may comprise a glass-fiber material. The armrest assembly may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the base and the insert. The armrest assembly may comprise a molded material. The armrest assembly may comprise a back-molded material with features. The features comprise ribs and / or projections. The molded material may comprise a hybrid molded material. The base may comprise ribs. The ribs may comprise reinforcement ribs. The ribs may comprise injection molded material. The ribs may comprise injection molded ribs formed out of a polymer material. The polymer material may comprise polypropylene. The insert may comprise a polypropylene based organosheet. The insert may comprise a polypropylene based organosheet with glass fiber reinforcement.

[0151] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the carrier may comprise a substrate. The intermediate section may comprise a reinforcement. The intermediate section may comprise an insert. The intermediate section may comprise a cover. The substrate may comprise a structural substrate. The substrate may comprise a base. The substrate may comprise a reinforcement. The substrate may comprise a panel. The panel may comprise aside panel. The panel may comprise a seat back panel. The panel may comprise a panel assembly. The panel may comprise a side panel assembly. The panel assembly may comprise a cover panel. The intermediate section may comprise a rigidifying arrangement for the panel. The rigidifying arrangement may comprise a honeycomb pattern. The panel may comprise a structural section. The structural section may comprise a layered panel. The structural section may comprise a sandwich panel. The sandwich panel may comprise a micro-sandwich panel. The substrate may comprise a micro- sandwich panel. The panel may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the panel and a cover. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the complete panel. The panel may comprise an organosheet. The panel may comprise a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich. The panel may comprise a laminated construction. A layer may be laminated onto a base for the panel. The panel may comprise a material selected from a group comprising polymer material. The panel may comprise a mass-reduced panel comprising a material selected from the group comprising polymer material. The mass-reduced panel may comprise a glass-fiber material. The panel may comprise a mono-material construction. The mono-material construction may comprise the base comprising a polymer material. The mono-material construction may comprise the base comprising a polyethylene terephthalate material. The panel may comprise a polypropylene-based carrier. The panel may comprise features. The features may comprise ribs and / or retainers. The features may comprise retainers welded to the panel. The features may comprise copolyester retainers welded to the panel. The panel may comprise a polypropylene-based carrier backmolded with features. The panel may comprise a polypropylene-based carrier backmolded with ribs. The panel may comprise a cover. The cover may comprise a polyester cover. The cover may comprise a polyester fabric cover. The cover may comprise a decorative cover. The cover may comprise a polymer material. The polymer material may comprise artificial leather. The polymer material may comprise polyethylene terephthalate artificial leather. The carrier may comprise a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the cover. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the base and the insert and the cover. The panel may comprise a cover comprising a polyester artificial leather or a polyester fabric. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the cover. The panel may comprise a cover comprising a polyvinyl chloride material or a polyurethane material; the recyclable subassembly may not comprise the cover. The insert may comprise a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich material with structural foam in the center. The panel may comprise an organosheet and glass fiber with polypropylene resin. The base may comprise a copolyesterresin or a polypropylene resin for ribs. The base may comprise a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin for a retainer. The base may comprise a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin for ribs and a retainer. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise at least one of an organosheet, glass fiber with polypropylene resin and a polyester non-woven material or a polyethylene terephthalate foam with a polyester non-woven material. The organosheet may comprise ribs. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the cover. The recyclable sub-assembly may comprise the base and the insert and the cover. The panel may comprise a valence.

[0152] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the seat may comprise a seat cushion and a seat back. The headrest assembly may be configured to be assembled to the seat back. The seat may comprise a mass-reduced seat comprising a mass-reduced headrest assembly. The seat may comprise a mass-reduced seat comprising a mass-reduced armrest assembly. The seat may comprise a mass-reduced seat comprising a mass-reduced side panel. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a polymer material. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a carbon fiber material. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a support frame comprising a polymer material. The mass-reduced seat may comprise a material selected from a group comprising polymer material. The mass- reduced seat may comprise a carbon-fiber material. The mass-reduced seat may comprise a glass-fiber material. The mass-reduced seat may comprise a carbon fiber material. The mass-reduced headrest assembly may comprise a headrest comprising a polymer material. The headrest assembly may comprise a headrest pad on a support frame. The recyclable subassembly of the headrest assembly may comprise a polymer material. The armrest assembly may comprise a base and an insert configured to fit within the base and a cover for the base. The armrest assembly may be configured to be assembled to the seat with a mechanism configured to attach the armrest assembly to the seat. The recyclable subassembly of the armrest assembly may comprise a polymer material; the recyclable subassembly of the armrest assembly may comprise the base and the insert. The recyclable subassembly of the armrest assembly may comprise the cover. The headrest assembly may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly and the armrest assembly may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The side panel may comprise a polymer material. The side panel may comprise a recyclable subassembly. The seat back panel may comprise a polymer material. The seat back panel may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly. The seat may comprise a recyclable sub-assembly comprising the seat cushion and seat back and recyclable sub-assembly of the headrest assembly and recyclable sub-assembly of the armrest assembly.

[0153] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle seat may comprise a carrier and an intermediate section for the carrier. The component may comprise a mass-reduced component and / or a recyclable sub-assembly. The component may comprise a composite material configured for mass reduction and / or recyclability as a sub-assembly. The composite material may comprise polymer material comprising one of the following polymer groups: polyamide, polycarbonate, polyester and / or polypropylene. The component may comprise a mono-material configured for recyclability as a partial sub-assembly or as a substantially complete sub-assembly. The component may comprise a seat comprising a headrest assembly and / or an armrest assembly and / or a side / seat panel assembly and / or a seat back panel assembly configured to facilitate recyclable sub-assemblies for improved efficiency in recycling of materials. The headrest frame may comprise a base formed on an insert; material of the insert may provide adhesion with material of the base. The component may comprise a panel comprising an organosheet made of fiber-reinforced polypropylene resin. The component may comprise an armrest assembly comprising a base and an insert reinforcing the base.Exemplary Embodiments - C

[0154] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in the FIGURES, a vehicle V may comprise an interior with interior components C such as a seat ST. As shown schematically in the FIGURES, seat ST may comprise a head restraint HR; head restraint may comprise a head restraint structure.

[0155] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior comprising a head restraint structure may comprise a base and a reinforcement. The reinforcement may comprise an insert inside the base. The reinforcement may comprise at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a carbon composite material; (c) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (d) a metal; (e) a metal alloy; (f) steel. The reinforcement may comprise a bar. The bar may comprise a generally constant cross section. The reinforcement may comprise a composite material in a form; the form may comprise at least one of (a) a strip; (b) a plate. The reinforcement may comprise a width and a thickness. The width may be greater than the thickness. The width may be between 16mm and 20mm. The thickness may be between 5mm and 10mm. The reinforcement may be prepared by a blanking process. The reinforcement may comprise a metal material in a form; the form may comprise at least one of (a) a strip; (b) a plate. The reinforcement may comprise a width and a thickness. The width may be greater than the thickness. The width may be between 2mm and 25mm. The thickness may be between 2mm and 10mm. The reinforcement may be prepared by at least one of (a) a hot drawn; (b) a cold drawn; (c) an extrusion process. The reinforcement may be prepared from at least one of (a) a sheet; (b) a composite sheet; (c) a plate; (d) a composite plate; (e) a wire. The reinforcement may be prepared by at least one of (a) a pultrusion process; (b) a thermoforming process. The component may be prepared by a process comprising the steps of placing the reinforcement in a mold and molding the base in the mold with the reinforcement. The base may be at least one of (a) molded on the reinforcement; (b) molded over the reinforcement. The base may comprise a molded plastic. The base may comprise a hollow tube. The hollow tube may comprise a generally oval cross section. The base may comprise a plate coupled to the hollow tube. The hollow tube may comprise a right tube and a left tube; the plate may be coupled between the right tube and the left tube. The reinforcement may comprise a right reinforcement inside the right tube and a left reinforcement inside the left tube. The base may be formed by an injection molding process. The base may comprise at least one notch. The at least one notch may comprise a molded notch. The at least one notch may be formed by a molding process. The at least one notch may be configured to position the head restraint structure in the vehicle interior.

[0156] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, head restraint structure may be configured to mate with a bezel assembly. Bezel assembly may comprise at least one of (a) a bezel cover; (b) a lock; (c) a locking pin; (d) a guiding element. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior comprising a head restraint may comprise a head restraint structure, a cover and an insert. The insert and the head restraint structure may form a hollow enclosure. The cover may be configured to cover the insert and the head restraint structure. The insert may comprise at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix. The insert may comprise a concave shaped sheet. The insert may comprise at least one of (a) a metal; (b) a metal alloy; (c) steel. The insert may comprise a shaped bar. The component may comprise a pad between the insert and the cover.

[0157] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior comprising a head restraint may comprise a head restraint structure, a cover and an insert. The insert and the head restraint structure may form a hollow enclosure. The cover may be configured to cover the insert and the head restraint structure. The insert may comprise at least one of (a) a metal material; (b) metal alloy; (c) a steel. The insert may comprise at a least a wire. The insert may comprise at least one of (a) a metal; (b) a metal alloy; (c) steel. The insert may comprise a shaped bar comprising a surface effect. The surface effect may comprise (a) a structure; (b) a texture; (c) an engraving; (d) an embossing; (e) a sanding; (f) a thread; (g) a groove. The component may comprise a pad between the insert and the cover.

[0158] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, the present invention relates to a vehicle interior component and a method for manufacturing a vehicle interior component. The component may comprise a head restraint. The head restraint may comprise a cover, a pad, a head restraint insert, a head restraint structure, a bezel assembly and a frame. The head restraint insert may comprise a lightweight material which may comprise a fiber reinforced material. The head restraint structure may comprise a structure base and a plate. The structure base may comprise a tube and a structure reinforcement which may comprise lightweight material which may comprise a fiber reinforced material. The structure base may comprise at least a locking notch; the notch may function as a positioning feature to enable height adjustment of the head restraint. The bezel assembly may comprise a lock, a locking pin, a guiding element and a bezel cover. The head restraint structure is arranged on the bezel assembly so as to be movable relative to the guiding element or lock. The geometry of the structure base, the notch and the pin areconfigured to provide a large resting surface for the locking pin. The structure base may be configured to provide a compact component.

[0159] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for use of the component may comprise thermoforming a fiber composite plate, cutting the fiber composite plate, extruding a metal plate or wire, cold drawing the metal plate or wire, hot drawing the metal plate or wire, insert injection molding, pultrusion of a structure base, and assembly of head restraint and bezel assembly.Exemplary Embodiments - D

[0160] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in the FIGURES, a vehicle may comprise an interior with interior components such as a seat; seat may comprise at least one valence.

[0161] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a valence may comprise a structure comprising a composite material. The composite material may comprise at least one of (a) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (b) a plastic resin and a fiber reinforcement; (c) an organosheet; (d) a fiber scrim; (e) a matrix material reinforced by natural fibers; (f) a glass fiber composite. The composite material may comprise at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) a polyamide; (d) polypropylene; (e) polycarbonate; (f) a thermoplastic polyurethane. The structure may comprise a concave shape. The structure may comprise a C-shaped section. The structure may comprise a generally constant thickness. The thickness may be between 0.25mm and 0.75mm. The structure may be prepared by a thermoforming process. The structure may be prepared by a deep drawing process. The structure may comprise a formed body and a reinforcement. The reinforcement may comprise a rib on a surface of the formed body. The reinforcement may be molded on the formed body. The reinforcement may comprise a molded plastic. The reinforcement may be formed by an injection molding process. The component may be prepared by a process comprising the steps of placing the formed body in a mold and molding the reinforcement in the mold with the formed body. The component may comprise a cover for the structure. The cover may comprise a molded plastic. The cover may be formed by an injection molding process. The component may be prepared by a process comprising the steps of placing the structure in a mold and molding the cover in the mold with the structure. The cover may be at least one of (a) molded on the structure; (b) molded over the structure. The cover may comprise at least one of (a) paint; (b) a laminate; (c) a film; (d) a foil. The structure may comprise a textured surface. The textured surface may be formed during at least one of (a) a thermoforming process; (b) a deep drawing process. The component maycomprise at least one of (a) a panel; (b) a shield; (c) a cover; (d) an instrument panel; (e) a door panel; (f) a panel for a console; (g) a bolster; (h) a load floor; (i) a bin; (j) a door; (k) a seat shield.

[0162] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a vehicle component may function as a car seat valence; the component may comprise a cover, a base and a reinforcement. The component may be configured as a light weight component. The reinforcement may be configured as ribs and retainers. The base may be configured as a structural component. The structural component may comprise a formed plate; the plate may comprise a plastic resin and a fiber reinforcement. The plate may comprise at least one of an organosheet, a fiber scrim and TEPEX. The fibers may comprise long fibers, short fibers, roving fibers, filament fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, natural fibers or a mixture of all above. The fibers of the plate may be arranged in specific directions or randomly, e.g. unidirectional, biaxial, triaxial or quadraxial. The plastic resin may comprise thermoplastic resin, polyamide, polypropylene, polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethanes or a mixture of all above. The plate may have a thickness of 0.25 to 0.75mm and the ribs may have a thickness of 1 to 3mm. The plate may be configured to avoid sink marks (caused by injection molded ribs) on the opposite surface. The reduced thickness of the plate prevents the resin (of the plate) from flowing towards the ribs.

[0163] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle may comprise weaving, needling and / or scrim laying, thermoforming, injection molding of ribs, and overmolding of a cover.Exemplary Embodiments - E

[0164] As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in the FIGURES, a vehicle may comprise an interior with interior components such as a seat. Seat may comprise an armrest. As shown schematically in the FIGURES, armrest may be configured to move from a use position through an intermediate position to a stowed position.

[0165] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, an armrest may comprise a structure comprising a composite material. The composite material may comprise at least one of (a) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (b) a plastic resin and a fiber reinforcement; (c) an organosheet; (d) a fiber scrim; (e) a matrix material reinforced by natural fibers; (f) a glass fiber composite. The composite material may comprise at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) a polyamide; (d) polypropylene; (e) polycarbonate; (f) a thermoplastic polyurethane. The structure may comprise a concave shape. The structure may comprise a C-shaped section. The structure may comprise a generally constant thickness. The thickness may be between 2mm and 4mm. The structure may be prepared by a thermoforming process. The structure may be prepared by a deep drawing process. The structure may comprise a formed body and a reinforcement. The reinforcement may comprise a rib on a surface of the formed body. The reinforcement may be molded on the formed body. The reinforcement may comprise a molded plastic. The reinforcement may be formed by an injection molding process. The component may be prepared by a process comprising the steps of placing the formed body in a mold and molding the reinforcement in the mold with the formed body. The component may comprise a cover for the structure. The cover may comprise at least one of (a) Expanded Polypropylene (EPP); (b) Expanded Polycarbonate (EPC). The cover may comprise a molded plastic. The cover may be formed by an injection molding process. The component may be prepared by a process comprising the steps of placing the structure in a mold and molding the cover in the mold with the structure. The cover may be at least one of (a) molded on the structure; (b) molded over the structure. The cover and the structure may form a hollow enclosure. The cover may comprise an inner cover and an outer cover. The component may comprise an adjustment mechanism between the structure and the inner cover. The component may comprise an adjustment mechanism configured to position the armrest in the vehicle interior. The component may comprise a pad on the structure.

[0166] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a vehicle interior component may function as a car seat armrest or a console armrest; the component may comprise an armrest. The armrest may comprise a pad, a covering, a supportstructure and a pivotable mechanism. The pivotable mechanism may comprise a joint and a bolt. The support structure may be configured to be a lightweight armrest support. The support structure may comprise a formed plate; the plate may comprise a plastic resin and a fiber reinforcement. The plate may comprise at least one of (a) an organosheet, (b) a fiber scrim; (c) a glass mat; (d) TEPEX. The fibers may comprise long fibers, short fibers, roving fibers, filament fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, natural fibers or a mixture of all above. The fibers of the plate may be arranged in specific directions or randomly, e.g. unidirectional, biaxial, triaxial or quadraxial. The plastic resin may comprise thermoplastic resin, polyamide, polypropylene, polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethanes or a mixture of all above.

[0167] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle may comprise at least one of the steps of weaving, needling, and / or scrim laying, thermoforming a structure, injection molding a reinforcement on the structure, and overmolding a cover on the structure.* * *

[0168] It is important to note that the present inventions (e.g. inventive concepts, etc.) have been described in the specification and / or illustrated in the FIGURES of the present patent document according to exemplary embodiments; the embodiments of the present inventions are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present inventions. The construction and / or arrangement of the elements of the inventive concepts embodied in the present inventions as described in the specification and / or illustrated in the FIGURES is illustrative only. Although exemplary embodiments of the present inventions have been described in detail in the present patent document, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that equivalents, modifications, variations, etc. of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments and alternative embodiments are possible and contemplated as being within the scope of the present inventions; all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. It should also be noted that various / other modifications, variations, substitutions, equivalents, changes, omissions, etc. may be made in the configuration and / or arrangement of the exemplary embodiments (e.g. in concept, design, structure, apparatus, form, assembly, construction, means, function, system, process / method, steps, sequence of process / method steps, operation, operating conditions, performance, materials, composition, combination, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present inventions; all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. The scope of the present inventions is not intended to be limited to the subject matter (e.g. details, structure, functions, materials, acts, steps, sequence, system, result, etc.) described in the specification and / or illustrated in the FIGURES of the present patent document. It is contemplated that the claims of the present patent document will be construed properly to cover the complete scope of the subject matter of the present inventions (e.g. including any and all such modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.); it is to be understood that the terminology used in the present patent document is for the purpose of providing a description of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments rather than as a limitation on the scope of the present inventions.

[0169] It is also important to note that according to exemplary embodiments the present inventions may comprise conventional technology (e.g. as implemented and / or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) or maycomprise any other applicable technology (present and / or future) with suitability and / or capability to perform the functions and processes / operations described in the specification and / or illustrated in the FIGURES. All such technology (e.g. as implemented in embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is considered to be within the scope of the present inventions of the present patent document.

Claims

CLAIMSThe invention claimed is:

1. A component configured for a seat for an interior of a vehicle comprising: a carrier; an intermediate section provided for the carrier; wherein the carrier with intermediate section comprises at least one of a headrest assembly, an armrest assembly, a seat panel and / or a seat back panel.

2. The component of Claim 1 comprising a mass-reduced component.

3. The component of Claim 1 comprising a recyclable sub-assembly.

4. The component of Claim 3 wherein the carrier and the intermediate section comprise the recyclable sub-assembly.

5. The component of Claim 1 comprising a component assembly comprising the headrest assembly and / or the armrest assembly and / or the seat panel and / or the seat back panel.

6. The component of Claim 5 wherein the carrier and the intermediate section comprise the component assembly.

7. The component of Claim 5 wherein the component assembly comprises a composite material configured for mass reduction.

8. The component of Claim 7 wherein the composite material comprises at least one of an organosheet; a unidirectional tape; a unidirectional sheet; an expanded polymer.

9. The component of Claim 1 comprising a recyclable sub-assembly; wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises a composite material configured for recyclability.

10. The component of Claim 9 wherein the composite material comprises a reinforcement comprising fiber and a polymer material.

11. The component of Claim 1 comprising a recyclable sub-assembly; wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises a polymer material configured for recyclability.

12. The component of Claim 11 wherein the polymer material is selected from at least one of:(a) a polyamide group;(b) a polycarbonate group;(c) a polyester group;(d) a polypropylene group.

13. The component of Claim 11 wherein the polymer material is selected from a group of polymer materials configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly; wherein the polymer material configured for recyclability as a sub-assembly is selected from a group of polymer materials comprising (a) a polyamide group; (b) a polycarbonate group; (c) a polyester group; (d) a polypropylene group.

14. The component of Claim 13 wherein the group of polymer materials comprises a mono-material for recyclability as a complete sub-assembly; wherein the monomaterial comprises a single material group.

15. The component of Claim 13 wherein the polyamide group comprises at least one of polyamide; polyamide 6; polyamide 6 / 6; polyamide 10 / 10; polyamide 12; recycled polyamide; biobased polyamide; polyamide glass fiber; polyamide resin.

16. The component of Claim 13 wherein the polycarbonate group comprises at least one of polycarbonate; expanded polycarbonate; recycled polycarbonate; biobased polycarbonate; polycarbonate-polyester blend; polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blend.

17. The component of Claim 13 wherein the polyester group comprises at least one of polyester fabric; polyester / plastic; polyethylene terephthalate; polybutylene terephthalate.

18. The component of Claim 13 wherein the polypropylene group comprises at least one of polypropylene; expanded polypropylene; polyolefin; thermoplastic polyolefin; polyethylene.

19. The component of Claim 1 wherein the carrier comprises a panel; wherein the panel comprises an organosheet.

20. The component of Claim 19 wherein the organosheet comprises a polymer material and at least one of continuous glass fiber; long glass fiber; continuous aramid fiber, long aramid fiber; continuous carbon fiber, long carbon fiber.

21. The component of Claim 20 wherein the polymer material of the organosheet comprises at least one of polypropylene resin; polyamide resin; polycarbonate resin.

22. The component of Claim 1 wherein the carrier comprises a base; wherein the base comprises a copolyester resin or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for ribs and / or a copolyester or a polypropylene resin or polyamide resin for a retainer.

23. The component of Claim 1 comprising a recyclable sub-assembly comprising at least one of an organosheet or a polyester foam with a polyester non-woven material.

24. The component of Claim 23 further comprising material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable sub-assembly; wherein the material configured to be separated by disassembly from the recyclable sub-assembly comprises polyvinylchloride and / or polyurethane and / or synthetic leather and / or genuine leather.

25. The component of Claim 1 comprising a sub-assembly configured to facilitate processing into a reusable material.

26. The component of Claim 25 wherein the sub-assembly comprises materials configured to be disassembled together at end of life.

27. The component of Claim 25 wherein the sub-assembly is configured to be shredded or chopped for reuse of materials into recycled material.

28. The component of Claim 25 wherein the sub-assembly comprises at least one of a composite material, an organosheet or a polymer material.

29. The component of Claim 25 wherein the carrier comprises a base and / or a panel and / or a substrate and / or a frame.

30. The component of Claim 1 wherein the intermediate section for the carrier comprises at least one of a connected section and / or an adjacent section and / or an intermediate layer and / or a cover and / or a foam material and / or a spacer material and / or a pad and / or a cushion.

31. The component of Claim 1 further comprising a mechanism configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat; wherein the mechanism is configured to facilitate movement of the headrest assembly relative to the seat; wherein the mechanism comprises a slider mechanism.

32. The component of Claim 31 wherein the carrier comprises a frame; wherein the frame comprises a support frame configured to attach the headrest assembly to the seat.

33. The component of Claim 32 wherein the support frame comprises at least one notch and / or a molded notch for the mechanism.

34. The component of Claim 32 wherein the support frame comprises a base member and an inner member.

35. The component of Claim 34 wherein the inner member comprises a frame member and / or an insert member.

36. The component of Claim 32 wherein the support frame comprises a base member formed on an insert member.

37. The component of Claim 36 wherein the base member is formed of a material and the insert member is formed of composite material; wherein the composite material of the insert member is configured to provide adhesion with the material of the base member.

38. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a feature configured to provide adhesion with the base member.

39. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a crosssection; wherein the cross-section comprises at least one of (a) circular, (b) triangular, (c) rectangular, (d) polygonal, (e) L-shape, (f) T-shape, (g) H-shape, (h) dumbbell shape.

40. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a rod and / or a bar and / or a set of rods and / or a set of members.

41. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a set of rods; wherein each rod of the set of rods comprises a generally rectangular section.

42. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a set of rods; wherein each rod of the set of rods comprises a generally curved section.

43. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a rod comprising a center section and a set of edge sections; wherein a set of ends is provided at each edge section; wherein the set of ends comprises enlarged ends.

44. The component of Claim 43 wherein the insert member comprises the set of ends connected by a connector section.

45. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises at least one of (a) a circular section, (b) a triangular section, (c) a rectangular section, (d) a polygonal section, (e) an L-shape section, (f) a T-shape section, (g) an H-shape section, (h) a dumbbell shape section, (i) a ladder-shape section.

46. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a feature.

47. The component of Claim 46 wherein the feature comprises a set of ends at an edge section.

48. The component of Claim 36 wherein the insert member comprises a feature configured to provide retention within the base member.

49. The component of Claim 48 wherein the feature comprises a set of projections and / or a set of threads.

50. The component of Claim 32 wherein the support frame comprises a set of base members and a set of inner members.

51. The component of Claim 50 wherein the set of inner members comprises reinforcement members for the set of base members.

52. The component of Claim 32 wherein the support frame comprises a composite material; wherein the composite material comprises a carbon-fiber material and / or a polymer material.

53. The component of Claim 52 wherein the composite material comprises unidirectional continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material and / or a continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material.

54. The component of Claim 52 wherein the composite material comprises continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material.

55. The component of Claim 52 wherein the composite material comprises a polycarbonate material.

56. The component of Claim 32 wherein the support frame comprises a carbon fiber reinforced composite material.

57. The component of Claim 52 wherein the polymer material comprises an injection molded material and / or an extruded material.

58. The component of Claim 50 wherein the support frame comprises a carbon- fiber reinforced polymer material; wherein the inner members of the set of inner members comprise a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer material.

59. The component of Claim 32 wherein a recyclable sub-assembly comprises the support frame.

60. The component of Claim 1 wherein the headrest assembly comprises a mass- reduced headrest assembly comprising a composite material selected from the group comprising composite material.

61. The component of Claim 60 wherein the mass-reduced headrest assembly comprises a carbon- fiber material.

62. The component of Claim 1 comprising an armrest assembly; wherein the carrier comprises a base; wherein the intermediate section comprises an insert within the base.

63. The component of Claim 62 further comprising a cover for the base.

64. The component of Claim 62 wherein the insert comprises a reinforcement.

65. The component of Claim 62 wherein the armrest assembly is configured to be assembled to a seat and / or a console and / or a trim panel.

66. The component of Claim 62 further comprising a mechanism configured to attach the armrest assembly to the seat; wherein the mechanism is configured to facilitate movement of the armrest assembly relative to the seat.

67. The component of Claim 62 wherein the base of the armrest assembly comprises a structural substrate.

68. The component of Claim 62 wherein the base of the armrest assembly comprises a shell; wherein the shell comprises a section; wherein the section comprises a rigidifying arrangement; wherein the rigidifying arrangement comprises a pattern.

69. The component of Claim 62 wherein the insert comprises a structural member.

70. The component of Claim 62 wherein the armrest assembly comprises a top section; wherein the top section comprises the intermediate section; wherein the top section comprises an intermediate material and a cover material; wherein the intermediate material comprises a foam material.

71. The component of Claim 70 wherein the foam material comprises a polyurethane foam; wherein the foam material is disassembled from a recyclable subassembly.

72. The component of Claim 70 wherein the foam material comprises a polyolefin foam; wherein a recyclable sub-assembly comprises the foam material.

73. The component of Claim 70 wherein the foam material comprises a polypropylene-based foam and / or a polyethylene foam.

74. The component of Claim 70 wherein the cover material comprises a polypropylene-based material and / or a polyester material.

75. The component of Claim 70 wherein the cover material comprises a foil material; wherein the foil material comprises a thermoplastic olefin.

76. The component of Claim 70 wherein the cover material comprises an expanded polypropylene material.

77. The component of Claim 70 wherein the base and / or insert comprise at least one of a long glass fiber material; a continuous glass fiber material; a polymer material; a filament glass material; a composite material; a polymer consolidated composite laminate; a polypropylene-based woven glass fiber mat; a polyamide based woven glass fiber; a polypropylene based organosheet; a polyamide based organosheet.

78. The component of Claim 62 wherein the armrest assembly comprises a mass- reduced armrest assembly comprising a composite material of a group comprising polymer material and / or composite material.

79. The component of Claim 62 wherein the armrest assembly comprises a recyclable sub-assembly; wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises a base and an insert.

80. The component of Claim 1 wherein the carrier comprises a substrate; wherein the substrate comprises a structural substrate and / or a base and / or a reinforcement.

81. The component of Claim 1 wherein the intermediate section comprises a reinforcement and / or an insert.

82. The component of Claim 1 wherein the intermediate section comprises a cover.

83. The component of Claim 1 wherein the substrate comprises a panel; wherein the panel comprises a seat panel and / or a seat back panel; wherein the seat panel comprises a side panel.

84. The component of Claim 83 wherein the intermediate section comprises a rigidifying arrangement for the panel.

85. The component of Claim 84 wherein the rigidifying arrangement comprises a pattern.

86. The component of Claim 85 wherein the pattern comprises a honeycomb pattern and / or a lamellar pattern.

87. The component of Claim 83 comprising a reinforcement section comprising a layered panel and / or a sandwich panel.

88. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises a recyclable subassembly.

89. The component of Claim 83 wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises a cover.

90. The component of Claim 89 wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises the base and the insert and the cover.

91. The component of Claim 88 wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises at least one of an organosheet; glass fiber with polypropylene resin and a polyester non-woven material or a polyethylene terephthalate foam with a polyester non-woven material.

92. The component of Claim 88 wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises the panel and a cover.

93. The component of Claim 88 wherein the recyclable sub-assembly comprises the complete panel.

94. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises an organosheet and / or a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich and / or a laminated construction.

95. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises a mass-reduced panel comprising a polymer material.

96. The component of Claim 95 wherein the mass-reduced panel comprises a glass-fiber material.

97. The component of Claim 95 wherein the panel comprises a mono-material construction; wherein the mono-material construction comprises the base comprising a polymer material.

98. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises a polypropylene- based carrier.

99. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises features; wherein the features comprise ribs and / or retainers.

100. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises a polymer material comprising a polyethylene terephthalate sandwich material.

101. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises a cover comprising a polyester artificial leather or a polyester fabric.

102. The component of Claim 83 wherein the panel comprises an organosheet and glass fiber with polypropylene resin.

103. A component for a vehicle interior comprising a head restraint structure; wherein the head restraint structure comprises a base and a reinforcement; wherein the reinforcement comprises an insert inside the base; wherein the reinforcement comprises at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a carbon composite material; (c) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (d) a MAEZIO material.

104. A component for a vehicle interior comprising a head restraint; wherein the head restraint comprises a head restraint structure, a support frame, a cover and an insert; wherein the cover is configured to cover the insert and the head restraint structure. wherein the insert comprises at least one of (a) a composite material; (b) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; wherein the insert comprises a surface effect comprising at least one of (a) a structure; (b) a texture; (c) an engraving; (d) an embossing; (e) a sanding; (f) a thread; (g) a groove.

105. A component for a vehicle comprising a valence; wherein the valence comprises a structure comprising a composite material and a cover; wherein the structure comprises a formed body and a reinforcement; wherein the cover is at least one of (a) molded on the structure; (b) molded over the structure; (c) paint; (d) a laminate; (e) a film; (f) a foil; (g) a textured surface.

106. The component of Claim 105 comprising at least one of (a) a panel; (b) a shield; (c) a cover; (d) an instrument panel; (e) a door panel; (f) a panel for a console; (g) a bolster; (h) a load floor; (i) a bin; (j) a door; (k) a seat shield.

107. A component for a vehicle interior comprising an armrest; wherein the armrest comprises a structure comprising a composite material; wherein the composite material comprises at least one of (a) a fiber reinforcement in a matrix; (b) a plastic resin and a fiber reinforcement; (c) an organosheet; (d) a fiber scrim; (e) a matrix material reinforced by natural fibers; (f) a glass fiber composite; (g) a resin; (h) a thermoplastic resin; (i) a polyamide; (j) polypropylene; (k) polycarbonate; (1) a thermoplastic polyurethane, (m) a TEPEX material.

108. The component of Claim 107 wherein the structure comprises a C-shaped section.

109. The component of Claim 107 wherein the structure is prepared by a thermoforming process and / or a deep-draw process.

110. The component of Claim 107 further comprising a cover for the structure; wherein the cover comprises at least one of (a) expanded polypropylene (EPP); (b) expanded polycarbonate (EPC).

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