Component for vehicle interior

Abstract

A component for a vehicle interior is disclosed. The component may comprise a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover retained to the base frame by a press fit. The base frame may comprise a substrate and a carrier. An edge of the cover may be retained to the base frame by a press fit at a joining area between the substrate and the carrier. The joining area may be located between an end of the substrate and an end of the carrier. The joining area may comprise a groove of the substrate and a projection of the carrier. The edge of the cover may be fitted between the groove of the substrate and the projection of the carrier. The composite structure may comprise a panel assembly.

Description

PATENT APPLICATIONCOMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIORCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in full U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 613,735 titled “COMPONENT FOR A VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed December 21, 2023.FIELD

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

[0003] It is known to provide a component for a vehicle interior such an armrest or glovebox or sun visor or floor console with a panel / lid as a door to present an overall appearance and style and / or comfort to the vehicle occupant. Such components may be manufactured by securing a soft foam pad to a rigid base / frame and providing a cover wrapped and stapled to the base / frame. Multiple materials and / or manufacturing steps may be required to secure the cover on the base / frame to achieve a desirable appearance (e.g. smooth, unwrinkled, high- quality, etc.).

[0004] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure with a base frame and a cover secured within the base frame.

[0005] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure with a base frame and a cover secured within the base frame by a press fit during assembly.

[0006] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure with a base frame comprising a carrier and a substrate and a cover secured within the base frame by a press fit during assembly of the carrier with the substrate.

[0007] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure with a base frame comprising a carrier and a substrate and a cover secured within the base frame by a press fit between the carrier and the substrate during assembly of the carrier with the substrate.SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure may comprise a base frame and a cover. The cover may be retained to the base frame by a press fit; the press fit may comprise a form fit; an edge of the cover may be retained to the base frame by the press fit; the press fit may comprise a fit within the base frame. The cover may be retained to the base frame by an interconnection within the base frame; the cover may be partially retained to the base frame by an interconnection within the base frame; the press fit may comprise an interference fit; the press fit may comprise a grip fit. The base frame may comprise a substrate and a carrier; the base frame may be formed by assembly of the substrate and the carrier and the cover; the base frame may be formed by connection of the substrate and the carrier by the cover; the base frame may be formed by fit of the substrate and the carrier; the base frame may be formed by press fit of the substrate and the carrier. An edge of the cover may be retained to the base frame by a press fit at a joining area between the substrate and the carrier; the joining area may be between an end of the substrate and the end of the carrier; the joining area may comprise a groove of the substrate and a projection of the carrier; the projection may comprise a mating projection for the groove; the edge of the cover may be fit between the groove of the substrate and the projection of the carrier. The cover may be retained when the base frame is formed by connection of the carrier to the substrate; the cover may be stretched and retained when the base frame is formed by assembly of the carrier to the substrate. The composite structure may comprise a panel assembly. The base frame may comprise a frame; the carrier may comprise a frame; the substrate may comprise a frame. The base frame may comprise a fit of a carrier with a substrate; the base frame may comprise a fit of a carrier with a substrate at a joining area; the base frame may comprise a fit of a carrier with a substrate to retain the cover; the base frame may comprise a fit of a carrier with a substrate to retain an edge of the cover; the base frame may comprise an interfit coupling of a carrier with a substrate. ; the base frame may comprise a form-fit of a carrier with a substrate; the base frame may comprise a form-fit of a carrier with a substrate to retain the cover; the base frame may comprise a formfit of a carrier with a substrate to retain an edge of the cover. The cover may comprise a sheet; the cover may comprise a sheet material; the cover may comprise a set of holes; the cover may comprise a set of holes at an edge; the cover may comprise a set of elongated holes; the cover may comprise a set of slits; the cover may comprise a set of holes configured for a set of projections; the cover may comprise a set of holes; each hole of the set of holes may be configured for a projection or a set of projections. The cover may be retained to thebase frame by an interference fit; the cover may be retained to the base frame by compression; the cover may be retained to the base frame by pinching; the cover may be retained to the base frame by pinning. The cover may be prefixed to the substrate; the cover may be prefixed to the substrate by stapling of an edge of the cover to the substrate; the cover may be prefixed to the substrate by buttoning of an edge of the cover to the substrate; the cover may be prefixed to the substrate by retaining a hole at an edge of the cover to a projection; the cover may be prefixed to the substrate by retaining a hole at an edge of the cover to a projection on the substrate. The cover may be retained to the substrate; the cover may be retained to the carrier; the cover may be retained between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be secured between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be stretched to be retained between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be pulled to be retained between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be gripped to be retained between the substrate and the carrier; assembly of the cover on the base frame may stretch the cover; the cover may be held between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be held to the substrate and the carrier. The cover may be retained by an interference fit with the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be held by interference fit between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be pinned between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be pinched between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be pulled between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be gripped between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be stretched between the substrate and the carrier. The cover may be retained within a groove; the cover may be retained by a projection; the cover may be retained by a set of projections; the cover may be retained within a groove by a projection; the cover may be retained within a groove by a set of projections; the cover may be retained against a surface of the base frame; the cover may be retained against a surface of the substrate; the cover may be retained between a recess of the substrate and a projection of the carrier; the cover may be retained between a surface of the substrate and a surface of the carrier; the cover may be retained by press fit between a recess of the substrate and a projection of the carrier; the cover may be retained by press fit between a surface of the substrate and a surface of the carrier. The carrier may comprise a projection; the carrier may comprise a set of projections; the projection may be configured to retain the cover by an interference fit; the projection may be configured to retain the cover by piercing; the projection may be configured to retain the cover by pinching; the projection may be configured to retain the cover by press fit and folding; the projection may be configured to retain the cover by folding; the projection may be configured to retain the cover by pinning. The substrate may comprise a recess; thesubstrate may comprise a groove; the recess may comprise a groove. The carrier may comprise a projection configured to fit within a groove of the substrate. The cover may be retained between a projection of the carrier and a groove of the substrate; the cover may be retained within the groove of the substrate; the cover may be retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate; the cover may be retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by interference fit; the cover may be retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by press fit; the cover may be retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by compression; the cover may be retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by folding; the cover may be retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by stretching. The cover may be stretched by the projection of the carrier around an edge of the substrate; the cover may be stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by piercing; the cover may be stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by poking; the cover may be stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by pinching; the cover may be stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by pinning. The projection may comprise a post; the projection may comprise a tip; the projection may comprise a top; the projection may comprise a pin; the projection may comprise an end; the end may comprise a profile; the end may comprise a shape; the tip may comprise a profile; the tip may comprise a shape; the projection may comprise a pointed end; the projection may comprise a curved end; the projection may comprise a flat surface; the projection may comprise a straight post; the projection may comprise a set of posts; the projection may comprise a sharp edged tip. The cover may be deformed within the groove of the substrate. The cover may be retained by crimping; the cover may be retained by clamping. The cover may be pulled into the groove; the cover may be stretched into the groove; the groove may comprise a ridge; the groove may comprise a ridge providing a groove; the cover may comprise an edge; an edge of the cover may be retained within the groove; a flap of the cover may be retained within the groove; the groove may comprise a U-shaped groove; the groove may comprise a curved surface; the groove may comprise a recess; the groove may comprise a deformable recess. The component for a vehicle interior may comprise an intermediate layer; the intermediate layer may comprise a foam; the intermediate layer may comprise a foam layer; the intermediate layer may comprise a seal; the intermediate layer may comprise a seal between the substrate and the carrier; the cover may be evenly stretched around the foam and substrate into the groove of the substrate;the cover may be evenly stretched around the foam and substrate by the projection of the carrier into the groove of the substrate. The composite structure may comprise a panel assembly. The cover may comprise at least one of a dress, a sewn dress, leather, artificial leather, genuine leather, skin, foil, foam, foam foil, fabric, etc.; the cover may comprise a decorative sheet material. The base frame may comprise a resin; the base frame may comprise a carrier comprising resin and a substrate comprising resin; the base frame may comprise a carrier formed by injection molding and a substrate formed by injection molding.

[0009] The present invention also relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover; an edge of the cover may be retained to the base frame by a fit during assembly of the base frame and cover; the base frame may comprise a carrier and a substrate; an edge of the cover may be retained to the base frame by a fit during assembly of the carrier to the substrate with the cover; an edge of the cover may be retained to the base frame by a press fit within the base frame, an edge of the cover may be retained to the base frame by an interconnection within the base frame; the cover may be partially retained to the base frame by an interconnection within the base frame.

[0010] The present invention also relates to a vehicle interior component comprising a lid comprising a cover, a carrier comprising an outer shell and a substrate comprising an inner shell; the substrate may comprise projections may comprise in-molded ribs.; the inner shell may comprise in-molded ribs; the inner shell may comprise a substrate; the outer shell may comprise a carrier; the substrate may comprise a frame; the carrier may comprise a frame; the substrate and the carrier may comprise a base frame; the inner shell may comprise a substrate; the in-molded ribs may comprise projections. The lid may be configured to cover a compartment of a floor console, a glove box, a storage compartment, etc. The outer shell may comprise an in-molded fitting groove in a peripheral portion of the outer shell and the inmolded fitting groove may be configured to be continuous or interrupted in the peripheral portion of the outer shell. The inner shell and the outer shell may comprise a set of in-molded ribs; at least one of the in-molded ribs of the inner shell and at least one of the corresponding in-molded ribs of the outer shell may be joined by a welding process; at least one of the inmolded ribs of the inner shell may be configured to comprise a projection at the end; the projection may be configured to be positioned into a corresponding in-molded fitting groove of the outer shell; the projection may be configured to be positioned against interruptions of the in-molded fitting groove; the projection be positioned against in-molded ribs of the outer shell. The cover may be pre-assembled onto the outer shell; the outer shell may comprise a pre- fixing feature; the pre-fixing feature may comprise at least one of an in-molded hook, anin- molded pin, an anvil rib, a projection, a protrusion, a staple, etc.; the cover may comprise at least one opening in correspondence to the pre-fixing feature and the pre-fixing feature may be configured to secure the cover on the outer shell; the cover may be stretched during movement of the outer shell and the inner shell together and then held in a position by the projection; the projection may comprise a spike or sharp edge or a thin edge on its end and the projection may comprise a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a flat shape, a semicircular shape, a trapezoidal shape, etc. ; the cover may comprise at least one of a cover layer, a dress, a sewn dress, leather, artificial leather, genuine leather, skin, foil, foam, foam foil, fabric, etc. The outer shell may be pre-assembled with a foam layer and a seal; the cover and the outer shell may be configured to form a subassembly. A prefixation may be performed to bring the cover to a position to lie over the in- molded fitting grooves. The outer shell may comprise a hook arrangement; the hook arrangement may be configured to stretch and hold the cover.FIGURES

[0011] FIGURE 1A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIGURE IB is a schematic perspective cutaway view of a vehicle showing a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIGURES 2A through 2D are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a storage compartment according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIGURE 3A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior shown as storage compartment according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIGURES 3B and 3C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior shown as a lid for a storage compartment according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIGURES 4A and 4B are schematic exploded perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIGURES 4C and 4D are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIGURES 5A and 5B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIGURE 5C is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIGURE 6A is schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIGURE 6B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIGURE 7 A is schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIGURE 7B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURE 8 is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIGURES 8A and 8B are schematic cutaway exploded views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIGURES 8C and 8D are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURE 9 is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURES 9A through 9D are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURE 10 is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIGURES 10A through 10D are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURE 11 is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIGURES 11 A through 1 ID are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] FIGURE 12 is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0034] FIGURES 12A through 12D are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] FIGURE 13 is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] FIGURES 13A through 13D are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] FIGURE 14 is a schematic cutaway section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] FIGURES 14A through 14D are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] FIGURE 15 A is a schematic cutaway perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIGURES 15B and 15C are schematic cutaway perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] FIGURES 16A and 16B are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] FIGURES 17A and 17B are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] FIGURE 18 A is a schematic cutaway perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] FIGURES 18B and 18C are schematic cutaway perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] FIGURES 19A through 19D are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] FIGURES 20A and 20B are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] FIGURES 21 A and 2 IB are schematic cutaway section views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] FIGURES 22A through 22D are schematic cutaway perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] FIGURES 23A and 23B are schematic cutaway perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0050] FIGURES 24A and 24B are schematic cutaway perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] FIGURES 25A through 25D are schematic section views of a projection for a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] FIGURES 26A through 26D are schematic section views of a projection for a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] FIGURES 27A through 27D are schematic perspective views of a projection for a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] FIGURES 28A through 28D are schematic perspective views of a projection for a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.DESCRIPTION

[0055] Referring to FIGURES 1A-1B and 2A-2D, a vehicle V with an interior I comprises a component C shown as an instrument panel IP, a visor / sun visor VN, a glove box GB, a floor console FC, an armrest AR, etc. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3A-3C, 4A-4D and 5A-5C, the component C such as a floor console FC may comprise a composite structure CS such as a panel assembly PN (such as providing a door / lid or set of doors / lids for a storage compartment) comprising a base frame BF and a cover T (such as a sheet material, layer, fabric, film, etc.) configured to be mounted to / assembled on a base B; as indicated schematically, the base frame BF of the composite structure CS / PN may comprise a carrier CR assembled onto a substrate SB with the cover T assembled / wrapped onto the base frame BF. See also FIGURES 8, 8A-8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A- 12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A-15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A- 20B, 21 A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4A-4D and 5A-5C, the composite structure CS may comprise an intermediate layer shown as a foam layer FM under the cover T; as indicated schematically in FIGURES 5A-5C, 6A-6B and 7A-7B, the composite structure CS may comprise a seal SL (shown as a seal strip such as an elastomer) between the carrier CR and the substrate SB.

[0056]

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A-8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A-15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A- 23B and 24A-24B, the edge TG of the cover T of the composite structure is secured / retained to the base frame BF between the carrier CR and the substrate SB. See also FIGURES 3A- 3C, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 25A-25D, 26A-26D, 27A-27D and 28A-28D.

[0057] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 8B-8C, 9A-9D, 10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A- 12D, 14A-14D 15A-15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D and 22A-22D, the edge TG of the cover T may be pulled / stretched into a recess / groove GR by engagement of a projection PR as the carrier CR is assembled into the substrate SB to form the base frame BF of the composite structure CS ; engagement and retention of the cover T between the carrier CR and substrate SB may comprise a press fit, interference fit, form fit, etc. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 14.

[0058] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 8D, 13A-13D. 14A-14D, 20A-20B, 21 A- 21B, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, the edge TG of the cover T may be engaged and retained between the carrier CR and the substrate SB by a press fit, pinch fit, pinned fit, etc. See also FIGURES 8 and 13.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment as indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A- 3C, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14, the base frame BF of the composite structure CS may comprise a resin / molded frame / carrier CR and a resin / molded frame / substrate SB; assembly of the composite structure CS may comprise pre-fixing of the edge TG of the cover T and then stretching with press-fit of the cover T and attachment / welding of the carrier CR to the substrate SB; fitment of the carrier CR and the substrate SB may be configured to compensate for dimensional tolerance variations of attachment / welding; pre-fixing of the cover T such as with staples SPL (see FIGURES 6A- 6B) will provide for proper positioning of the cover T for assembly / attachment of the carrier CR to the substrate SB (engaging projections / ribs may be provided on the substrate and carrier to facilitate attachment by welding, etc.).Exemplary Embodiments - A

[0060] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15A and 18A, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a composite structure CS may comprise a base frame BF and a cover T; the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by a press fit; the press fit may comprise a form fit; an edge TG of the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by the press fit; the press fit may comprise a fit within the base frame BF; the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by an interconnection within the base frame BF; the cover T may be partially retained to the base frame BF by an interconnection within the base frame BF; the press fit may comprise an interference fit; the press fit may comprise a grip fit. See also FIGURES 8A-8D, 9A-9D, 10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12D, 13A-13D, 14A-14D, 15B- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18B-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B.

[0061] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, the base frame BF may comprise a substrate SB and a carrier CR; the base frame BF may be formed by assembly of the substrate SB and the carrier CR and the cover T; the base frame BF may be formed by connection of the substrate SB and the carrier CR by the cover T; the base frame BF may be formed by fit of the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the base frame BF may be formed by press fit of the substrate SB and the carrier CR. An edge TG of the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by a press fit at a joining areabetween the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the joining area may be between an end of the substrate SB and the end of the carrier CR; the joining area may comprise a recess shown as groove GR of the substrate SB and a post shown as projection PR of the carrier CR; the projection PR may comprise a mating projection PR for the groove GR; the edge TG of the cover T may be fit between the groove GR of the substrate SB and the projection PR of the carrier CR. The cover T may be retained when the base frame BF is formed by connection of the carrier CR to the substrate SB; the cover T may be stretched and retained when the base frame BF is formed by assembly of the carrier CR to the substrate SB.

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise composite structure CS comprising a panel assembly PN comprising a base frame BF. The base frame BF may comprise a frame; the carrier CR may comprise a frame; the substrate SB may comprise a frame. The base frame BF may comprise a fit of a carrier CR with a substrate SB; the base frame BF may comprise a fit of a carrier CR with a substrate SB at a joining area; the base frame BF may comprise a fit of a carrier CR with a substrate SB to retain the cover T ; the base frame BF may comprise a fit of a carrier CR with a substrate SB to retain an edge TG of the cover T; the base frame BF may comprise an interfit coupling of a carrier CR with a substrate SB.; the base frame BF may comprise a form-fit of a carrier CR with a substrate SB; the base frame BF may comprise a form-fit of a carrier CR with a substrate SB to retain the cover T; the base frame BF may comprise a form-fit of a carrier CR with a substrate SB to retain an edge TG of the cover T.

[0063] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 1 1, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, the cover T may comprise a sheet; the cover T may comprise a sheet material; the cover T may comprise a set of holes; the cover T may comprise a set of holes at an edge TG; the cover T may comprise a set of elongated holes; the cover T may comprise a set of slits; the cover T may comprise a set of holes configured for a set of projections PR ; the cover T may comprise a set of holes; each hole of the set of holes may be configured for a projection PR or a set of projections PR. The cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by an interference fit; the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by compression; the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by pinching; the cover T may be retained to the baseframe BF by pinning. The cover T may be prefixed to the substrate SB; the cover T may be prefixed to the substrate SB by stapling of an edge TG of the cover T to the substrate SB; the cover T may be prefixed to the substrate SB by buttoning of an edge TG of the cover T to the substrate SB; the cover T may be prefixed to the substrate SB by retaining a hole at an edge TG of the cover T to a projection; the cover T may be prefixed to the substrate SB by retaining a hole at an edge TG of the cover T to a projection PR on the substrate SB. The cover T may be retained to the substrate SB; the cover T may be retained to the carrier CR; the cover T may be retained between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be secured between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be stretched to be retained between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be pulled to be retained between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be gripped to be retained between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; assembly of the cover T on the base frame BF may stretch the cover T; the cover T may be held between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be held to the substrate SB and the carrier CR. The cover T may be retained by an interference fit with the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be held by interference fit between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be pinned between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be pinched between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be pulled between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be gripped between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be stretched between the substrate SB and the carrier CR.

[0064] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, the cover T may be retained within a groove GR; the cover T may be retained by a projection PR; the cover T may be retained by a set of projections PR; the cover T may be retained within a groove GR by a projection PR; the cover T may be retained within a groove PR by a set of projections PR; the cover T may be retained within a set of grooves GR by a set of projections PR; the cover T may be retained against a surface of the base frame BF; the cover T may be retained against a surface of the substrate SB ; the cover T may be retained between a recess of the substrate SB and a projection PR of the carrier CR; the cover T may be retained between a surface of the substrate SB and a surface of the carrier CR; the cover T may be retained by press fit between a recess of the substrate SB and a projection PR of the carrier CR; the cover T may be retained by press fit between a surface of the substrate SB and a surface of the carrier CR.

[0065] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a base frame BF comprising a carrier CR and a substrate SB. The carrier CR may comprise a projection; the carrier CR may comprise a set of projections PR; the projection PR may be configured to retain the cover T by an interference fit; the projection PR may be configured to retain the cover T by piercing; the projection PR may be configured to retain the cover T by pinching; the projection PR may be configured to retain the cover T by press fit and folding; the projection PR may be configured to retain the cover T by folding; the projection PR may be configured to retain the cover T by pinning.

[0066] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a base frame BF comprising a carrier CR and a substrate SB comprising a recess; the substrate SB may comprise a groove GR; the recess may comprise a groove GR. The carrier CR may comprise a projection PR configured to fit within a groove GR of the substrate SB. The cover T may be retained between a projection PR of the carrier CR and a groove GR of the substrate SB; the cover T may be retained within the groove GR of the substrate SB; the cover T may be retained by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB; the cover T may be retained by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by interference fit; the cover T may be retained by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by press fit; the cover T may be retained by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by compression; the cover T may be retained by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by folding; the cover T may be retained by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by stretching. The cover T may be stretched by the projection PR of the carrier CR around an edge TG of the substrate SB; the cover T may be stretched and held by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by piercing; the cover T may be stretched and held by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by poking; the cover T may be stretched and held by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrate SB by pinching; the cover T may be stretched and held by the projection PR of the carrier CR within a groove GR of the substrateSB by pinning. The groove may comprise a generally U-shaped groove (or V-shaped groove); the groove may comprise a curved surface; the groove may comprise a recess; the groove may comprise a deformable recess

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 25A- 25D, 26A-26D, 27A-27D and 28A-28D, the projection PR may comprise a post; the projection PR may comprise a tip; the projection PR may comprise a top; the projection PR may comprise a pin; the projection PR may comprise an end; the end may comprise a profile (e.g. pointed, sharp, smooth, curved, rounded, etc.); the end may comprise a shape (e.g. pointed shape, curved shape, rounded shape, flat shape, etc.); the tip may comprise a profile; the tip may comprise a shape; the projection PR may comprise a pointed end; the projection PR may comprise a curved end; the projection PR may comprise a flat surface; the projection PR may comprise a straight post; the projection PR may comprise a set of posts; the projection PR may comprise a sharp edged tip.

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A- 15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, the cover T may be deformed within the groove of the substrate SB; the cover T may be retained by crimping; the cover T may be retained by clamping; the cover T may be pulled into the groove GR; the cover T may be stretched into the groove GR; the groove GR may comprise a ridge; the groove GR may comprise a ridge providing a groove GR; the cover T may comprise an edge TG; an edge TG of the cover T may be retained within the groove GR; a flap of the cover T may be retained within the groove GR. See also FIGURES 25A-25D, 26A-26D, 27A-27D and 28A-28D.

[0069] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES 3A- 3C, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 14, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a composite structure CS comprising an intermediate layer; the intermediate layer may comprise a foam FM; the intermediate layer may comprise a foam layer FM; the intermediate layer may comprise a seal SL; the intermediate layer may comprise a seal between the substrate SB and the carrier CR; the cover T may be evenly stretched around the foam FM and substrate SB into the groove GR of the substrate SB; the cover T may be evenly stretched around the foam and substrate SB by the projection PR of the carrier CR into the groove GR of the substrate SB.

[0070] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8, 8A- 8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 1 1, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A-15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A-20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a panel assembly PN comprising a base frame BF comprising a carrier CR and a substrate SB with a cover T. The cover T may comprise at least one of a dress, a sewn dress, leather, artificial leather, genuine leather, skin, foil, foam, foam foil, fabric, etc.; the cover T may comprise a decorative sheet material. The base frame BF may comprise a resin; the base frame BF may comprise a carrier CR comprising resin and a substrate SB comprising resin; the base frame BF may comprise a carrier CR formed by injection molding and a substrate SB formed by injection molding.

[0071] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8, 8A-8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A- 12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A-15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A- 20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a base frame BF and a cover T; an edge TG of the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by a fit during assembly of the base frame BF and cover T; the base frame BF may comprise a carrier CR and a substrate SB; an edge TG of the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by a fit during assembly of the carrier CR to the substrate SB with the cover T ; an edge TG of the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by a press fit within the base frame BF. an edge TG of the cover T may be retained to the base frame BF by an interconnection within the base frame BF; the cover T may be partially retained to the base frame BF by an interconnection within the base frame BF.

[0072] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, the assembly with the press fit connection for the base frame with the carrier and substrate to retain the cover simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces manufacturing time and cost (e.g. by eliminating / reducing the need for additional fastening hardware or adhesives); the process with stretching and retaining the cover as the base frame is assembled may reduce the complexity of the cover wrapping or the need for additional cover adjustment to simplify the design of the component and / or to potentially reduce manufacturing / production costs.

[0073] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, the assembly with the press fit connection for the base frame with the carrier and substrate to retain the cover provides seamless integration of the cover with the base frame to facilitate / contributes to an aesthetic appearance (e.g. generally pleasing design, enhanced the overall visual appeal of the vehicle interior, etc.); the assembly facilitates a design of thecomponent to provide for more continuous / smooth outer surface at the cover (e.g. without visible fasteners, etc.) to enhances the appearance / visual appeal of the component. The base frame and / or carrier may be configured to appear continuous / smooth on the underside (e.g. surface facing away from the joining area with grooves / proj ections); the joining area (with grooves / proj ections) may be covered / concealed in the composite structure shown as the panel assembly of the component.

[0074] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, for the assembly with the press fit connection for the base frame with the carrier and substrate to retain the cover, the cover may be pre-assembled over the substrate (or substrate with intermediate layer); the cover may be pre- fixed by a feature such as an in-molded hook, an in- molded pin, an anvil rib, a projection, a protrusion, a staple, etc.; the cover may comprise at least one opening in correspondence to the pre-fixing feature and the pre-fixing feature may be configured to secure the cover over the substrate; the cover may be stretched during assembly of the base frame then retained in a position by the projection. Pre-fixing of the cover may be performed to bring the cover to a position over joining area for assembly of the base frame with the carrier and the substrates (e.g. projections in alignment with grooves, surfaces, etc.); the substrate may comprise a feature such as a hook arrangement\configured to stretch and hold the cover in position for assembly of the base frame to retain the cover for final assembly.

[0075] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, for the assembly with the press fit connection for the base frame with the carrier and substrate to retain the cover, the projection may comprise a post, pin, spike comprising a sharp edge or a thin edge at the end; the projection may comprise a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a flat shape, a semi-circular shape, a trapezoidal shape, a curved shape, a rounded shape, etc.

[0076] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, for the assembly with the press fit connection for the base frame with the carrier and substrate to retain the cover, the cover may comprise at least one of a cover layer, a dress, a sewing, a sewn dress, artificial leather, genuine leather, skin, foil, foam, foam foil, fabric etc. The substrate may be pre-assembled with the intermediate layer such as a foam layer and a seal; the cover and the substrate may be configured to form a subassembly.Exemplary Embodiments - B

[0077] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8, 8A-8D, 9, 9A-9D, 10, 10A-10D, 1 1, 11A-11D, 12, 12A- 12D, 13, 13A-13D, 14, 14A-14D, 15A-15C, 16A-16B, 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19D, 20A- 20B, 21A-21B, 22A-22D, 23A-23B and 24A-24B, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a lid / panel PN comprising a cover T, a carrier comprising an inner shell CR and a substrate comprising an outer shell SB; the carrier may comprise projections PR which may comprise in-molded ribs; the outer shell SB may comprise in-molded ribs; the outer shell SB may comprise a substrate; the inner shell CR may comprise a carrier; the substrate may comprise a frame; the carrier may comprise a frame; the substrate and the carrier may comprise a base frame; the outer shell SB may comprise a substrate; the in-molded ribs may comprise projections PR. The projection PR may be configured to function as a downholder PR for the cover T. The lid / panel PN may be configured to cover a compartment of a floor console, a glove box, a storage compartment, etc. The outer shell SB may comprise an inmolded fitting groove GR in a peripheral portion of the outer shell SB and the in-molded fitting groove GR may be configured to be continuous or interrupted in the peripheral portion of the outer shell SB. The inner shell CR and the outer shell SB may comprise a set of in- molded ribs; at least one of the in-molded ribs of the outer shell SB and at least one of the corresponding in-molded ribs of the inner shell CR may be joined by a welding process; at least one of the in-molded ribs of the inner shell CR may be configured to comprise a projection PR at the end; the projection PR may be configured to be positioned into a corresponding in-molded fitting groove GR of the outer shell SB; the projection PR may be configured to be positioned against interruptions of the in-molded fitting groove GR; the projection PR be positioned against in-molded ribs of the outer shell SB. The cover T may be pre-assembled onto the outer shell SB; the outer shell SB may comprise a pre-fixing feature; the pre-fixing feature may comprise at least one of an in-molded hook, an in-molded pin, an anvil rib, a projection, a protrusion, a staple SPL, etc.; the cover T may comprise at least one opening in correspondence to the pre-fixing feature and the pre-fixing feature may be configured to secure the cover T on the outer shell SB; the cover T may be stretched during movement of the outer shell SB and the inner shell CR together and then held in a position by the projection PR; the projection PR may comprise a spike or sharp edge or a thin edge on its end and the projection PR may comprise a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a flat shape, a semi-circular shape, a trapezoidal shape, etc.; the cover T may comprise at least one of a cover layer, a dress, a sewing dress, a foil, etc. The outer shell SB may be pre-assembledwith a foam FM and a seal SL; the cover T and the outer shell SB may be configured to form a subassembly. A prefixation may be performed to bring the cover T to a position to lie over the in-molded fitting grooves GR. The outer shell SB may comprise a hook arrangement; the hook arrangement may be configured to stretch and hold the cover T at least during the prefixation.

[0078] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a lid / panel PN comprising a cover T, an outer shell SB and an inner shell CR. The lid / panel PN may comprise a foam and the cover T may comprise at least one of a dress, a sewn dress, leather, artificial leather, genuine leather, skin, foil, foam, foam foil, fabric etc. The lid / panel PN may comprise an outer shell SB or an outer lid carrier, an inner shell CR or an inner lid carrier, a cover T, a foam FM, and a seal SL. The outer shell SB may comprise in-molded fitting grooves GR provided as a continuous or interrupted groove GR in the peripheral portion of the outer shell SB. The inner shell CR may comprise in-molded ribs corresponding to the in-molded fitting grooves GR of the outer shell SB. The in- molded ribs may be configured to function as a downholder PR of the cover T. The downholder PR may comprise a spike or sharp edge or thin edge at the end. The outer and inner shell may comprise ribs, which are configured to be welded together.

[0079] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component configured for a lid / panel PN for an interior of a vehicle may comprise a cover T, an outer shell SB, an inner shell CR, a foam FM and a seal SL. The outer shell SB with the lamination has in-molded fitting grooves GR provided as a continuous groove GR in the peripheral portion of the outer shell SB. In some embodiments, the in-molded fitting grooves GR are provided partially in the peripheral portion of the outer shell SB. In some embodiments, the in-molded fitting grooves GR may be provided as interrupted grooves GR in the peripheral portion of the outer shell SB. The inner shell CR is provided with in-molded ribs corresponding to the in-molded fitting grooves GR of the outer shell SB. The in- molded rib comprises a “spike” or “sharp edge” at the end and are configured as downholder PR for the cover T comprising a cover layer. The interrupted grooves GR in the peripheral portion of the outer shell SB are provided for the required stiffening. In a first step of assembly of the lid / panel PN, the foam FM, the seal SL, and the cover T are pre-assembled to the outer shell SB to form an outer shell SB sub-assembly. In a second step of the assembly, the outer shell SB and the inner shell CR are moved together during which the cover T lies loosely over the in-molded grooves GR. A prefixation may be required to bring the cover T to a position to lie over the in-molded grooves GR. While the outer shell SB and the inner shell CR movetogether, e.g., during the welding process, the in-molded ribs of the inner shell CR enter the in-molded fitting grooves GR, thereby pressing the cover T into the in-molded fitting grooves GR over the ribs. While moving the outer shell SB and the inner shell CR together, the cover T is stretched so that it fits all around the periphery of the outer shell SB and is held in position by the inserted down holders. The depth, width, and design of the ribs, the grooves GR may vary and may be adjusted depending on the cover T and the requirements for durability.

[0080] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a lid / panel PN comprising a sewing dress, a foam, an inner shell CR, and an outer shell SB. The inner and the outer shell may comprise injection molded ribs which are designed to be welded together in the assembly process. The outer shell SB may comprise a groove GR in the periphery and the inner shell CR comprises also in-molded ribs which are designed to be inserted in the groove GR during an assembly process and function as downholder PR and fixation of the sewing dress. The outer shell SB may comprise in-molded hooks prefix the sewing dress before the final assembly. The inner shell CR may appear smooth on its side facing away from the in-molded ribs, in order to cover the ribs of the outer shell SB and the cover edge in the panel.* * *

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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 for a vehicle interior comprising: a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover; wherein the cover is retained to the base frame by a press fit.

2. The component of Claim 1 wherein the press fit comprises a form fit.

3. The component of Claim 1 wherein an edge of the cover is retained to the base frame by the press fit.

4. The component of Claim 1 wherein the press fit comprises a fit within the base frame.

5. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained to the base frame by an interconnection within the base frame.

6. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is partially retained to the base frame by an interconnection within the base frame.

7. The component of Claim 1 wherein the press fit comprises an interference fit.

8. The component of Claim 1 wherein the press fit comprises a grip fit.

9. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a substrate and a carrier.

10. The component of Claim 9 wherein the base frame is formed by assembly of the substrate and the carrier and the cover.

11. The component of Claim 9 wherein the base frame is formed by connection of the substrate and the carrier by the cover.

12. The component of Claim 9 wherein the base frame is formed by fit of the substrate and the carrier.

13. The component of Claim 9 wherein the base frame is formed by press fit of the substrate and the carrier.

14. The component of Claim 9 wherein an edge of the cover is retained to the base frame by a press fit at a joining area between the substrate and the carrier.

15. The component of Claim 14 wherein thejoining area is between an end of the substrate and the end of the carrier.

16. The component of Claim 14 wherein thejoining area comprises a groove of the substrate and a projection of the carrier.

17. The component of Claim 16 wherein the projection comprises a mating projection for the groove.

18. The component of Claim 16 wherein the edge of the cover is fit between the groove of the substrate and the projection of the carrier.

19. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained when the base frame is formed by connection of the carrier to the substrate.

20. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is stretched and retained when the base frame is formed by assembly of the carrier to the substrate.

21. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a panel assembly.

22. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a frame.

23. The component of Claim 9 wherein the carrier comprises a frame.

24. The component of Claim 9 wherein the substrate comprises a frame.

25. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a fit of a carrier with a substrate.

26. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a fit of a carrier with a substrate at a joining area.

27. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a fit of a carrier with a substrate to retain the cover.

28. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a fit of a carrier with a substrate to retain an edge of the cover.

29. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises an interfit coupling of a carrier with a substrate.

30. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a form-fit of a carrier with a substrate.

31. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a form-fit of a carrier with a substrate to retain the cover.

32. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a form-fit of a carrier with a substrate to retain an edge of the cover.

33. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a sheet.

34. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a sheet material.

35. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a set of holes.

36. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a set of holes at an edge.

37. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a set of elongated holes.The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a set of slits.

39. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a set of holes configured for a set of projections.

40. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a set of holes; wherein each hole of the set of holes is configured for a projection or a set of projections.41 . The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained to the base frame by an interference fit.The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained to the base frame by compression.

43. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained to the base frame by pinching.

44. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained to the base frame by pinning.

45. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is prefixed to the substrate.

46. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is prefixed to the substrate by stapling of an edge of the cover to the substrate.

47. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is prefixed to the substrate by buttoning of an edge of the cover to the substrate.

48. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is prefixed to the substrate by retaining a hole at an edge of the cover to a projection.

49. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is prefixed to the substrate by retaining a hole at an edge of the cover to a projection on the substrate.

50. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained to the substrate.

51. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained to the carrier.

52. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained between the substrate and the carrier.

53. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is secured between the substrate and the carrier.

54. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is stretched to be retained between the substrate and the carrier.

55. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is pulled to be retained between the substrate and the carrier.

56. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is gripped to be retained between the substrate and the carrier.

57. The component of Claim 1 wherein assembly of the cover on the base frame stretches the cover.

58. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is held between the substrate and the carrier.

59. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is held to the substrate and the carrier.

60. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained by an interference fit with the substrate and the carrier.

61. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is held by interference fit between the substrate and the carrier.

62. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is pinned between the substrate and the carrier.

63. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is pinched between the substrate and the carrier.

64. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is pulled between the substrate and the carrier.

65. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is gripped between the substrate and the carrier.

66. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is stretched between the substrate and the carrier.

67. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained within a groove.

68. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained by a projection.

69. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained by a set of projections.

70. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained within a groove by a projection.

71. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained within a groove by a set of projections.

72. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained against a surface of the base frame.

73. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained against a surface of the substrate.T174. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained between a recess of the substrate and a projection of the carrier.

75. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained between a surface of the substrate and a surface of the carrier.

76. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained by press fit between a recess of the substrate and a projection of the carrier.

77. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained by press fit between a surface of the substrate and a surface of the carrier.

78. The component of Claim 9 wherein the carrier comprises a projection.

79. The component of Claim 9 wherein the carrier comprises a set of projections.

80. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection is configured to retain the cover by an interference fit.

81. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection is configured to retain the cover by piercing.

82. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection is configured to retain the cover by pinching.

83. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection is configured to retain the cover by press fit and folding.

84. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection is configured to retain the cover by folding.

85. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection is configured to retain the cover by pinning.

86. The component of Claim 9 wherein the substrate comprises a recess.

87. The component of Claim 9 wherein the substrate comprises a groove.

88. The component of Claim 86 wherein the recess comprises a groove.

89. The component of Claim 9 wherein the carrier comprises a projection configured to fit within a groove of the substrate.

90. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover is retained between a projection of the carrier and a groove of the substrate.

91. The component of Claim 87 wherein the cover is retained within the groove of the substrate.

92. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate.

93. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by interference fit.

94. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by press fit.

95. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by compression.

96. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by folding.

97. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is retained by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by stretching.

98. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is stretched by the projection of the carrier around an edge of the substrate.

99. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by piercing.

100. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by poking.

101. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by pinching.

102. The component of Claim 78 wherein the cover is stretched and held by the projection of the carrier within a groove of the substrate by pinning.

103. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a post.

104. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a tip.

105. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a top.

106. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a pin.

107. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises an end.

108. The component of Claim 107 wherein the end comprises a profile.

109. The component of Claim 107 wherein the end comprises a shape.

110. The component of Claim 104 wherein the tip comprises a profile.

111. The component of Claim 104 wherein the tip comprises a shape.

112. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a pointed end.

113. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a curved end.

114. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a flat surface.

115. The component of Claim 87 wherein the cover is deformed within the groove of the substrate.

116. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a straight post.

117. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a set of posts.

118. The component of Claim 78 wherein the projection comprises a sharp edged tip.

119. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained by crimping.

120. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is retained by clamping.

121. The component of Claim 86 wherein the cover is pulled into the groove.

122. The component of Claim 86 wherein the cover is stretched into the groove.

123. The component of Claim 86 wherein the groove comprises a ridge.

124. The component of Claim 86 wherein the groove comprises a ridge providing a groove.

125. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises an edge.

126. The component of Claim 86 wherein an edge of the cover is retained within the groove.

127. The component of Claim 86 wherein a flap of the cover is retained within the groove.

128. The component of Claim 86 wherein the groove comprises a U-shaped groove.

129. The component of Claim 86 wherein the groove comprises a curved surface.

130. The component of Claim 86 wherein the groove comprises a recess.

131. The component of Claim 86 wherein the groove comprises a deformable recess.

132. The component of Claim 86 further comprising an intermediate layer.

133. The component of Claim 132 wherein the intermediate layer comprises a foam.

134. The component of Claim 133 wherein the cover is evenly stretched around the foam and substrate into the groove of the substrate.

135. The component of Claim 133 wherein the cover is evenly stretched around the foam and substrate by the projection of the carrier into the groove of the substrate.

136. The component of Claim 1 further comprising a foam layer.

137. The component of Claim 1 further comprising a seal.

138. The component of Claim 9 further comprising a seal between the substrate and the carrier.

139. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a panel assembly.

140. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises at least one of leather, sewn dress, artificial leather, skin, foil, foam, foam foil, or fabric.

141. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a decorative sheet material.

142. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a resin.

143. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a carrier comprising resin and a substrate comprising resin.

144. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base frame comprises a carrier formed by injection molding and a substrate formed by injection molding.

145. A component for a vehicle interior comprising: a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover; wherein an edge of the cover is retained to the base frame by a fit during assembly of the base frame and cover.

146. A component for a vehicle interior comprising: a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover; wherein the base frame comprises a carrier and a substrate; wherein an edge of the cover is retained to the base frame by a fit during assembly of the carrier to the substrate with the cover.

147. A component for a vehicle interior comprising: a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover; wherein an edge of the cover is retained to the base frame by a press fit within the base frame.

148. A component for a vehicle interior comprising: a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover; wherein an edge of the cover is retained to the base frame by a interconnection within the base frame.

149. A component for a vehicle interior comprising: a composite structure comprising a base frame and a cover; wherein the cover is partially retained to the base frame by a interconnection within the base frame.

150. A vehicle interior component comprises a lid comprising:(a) a cover;(b) a carrier comprising an outer shell;(c) a substrate comprising an inner shell; wherein the substrate comprises projections comprising in-molded ribs..

151. A vehicle interior component comprises a lid comprising :(a) a cover;(b) an outer shell;(c) an inner shell; wherein the inner shell comprises in-molded ribs.

152. The component of Claim 151 wherein the inner shell comprises a substrate; wherein the outer shell comprises a carrier.

153. The component of Claim 152 wherein the substrate comprises a frame; wherein the carrier comprises a frame; wherein the substrate and the carrier comprise a base frame.

154. The component of Claim 151 wherein the inner shell comprises a substrate; wherein in-molded ribs comprise projections.

155. The component of Claim 151 wherein the lid is configured to cover a compartment of (a) a floor console or (b) a glove box or (c) a storage.

156. The component of Claim 151 wherein the outer shell comprises an in-molded fitting groove in a peripheral portion of the outer shell and wherein the in-molded fitting groove is configured to be continuous or interrupted in the peripheral portion of the outer shell.

157. The component of Claim 151 wherein the inner shell and the outer shell comprises a set of in-molded ribs.

158. The component of Claim 157 wherein at least one of the in- molded ribs of the inner shell and at least one of the corresponding in-molded ribs of the outer shell are joined by a welding process.

159. The component of Claim 151 wherein at least one of the in- molded ribs of the inner shell is configured to comprise a projection at the end.

160. The component of Claim 159 wherein the projection is configured to (a) be positioned into a corresponding in-molded fitting groove of the outer shell or (b) be positioned against interruptions of the in-molded fitting groove or (c) be positioned against in-molded ribs of the outer shell.

161. The component of Claim 151 wherein the cover is pre-assembled onto the outer shell wherein the outer shell comprises a pre-fixing feature wherein the pre-fixing feature comprises at least one of (a) an in-molded hook, (b) an in-molded pin, (c) an anvil rib, (d) a projection, (e) a protrusion and (f) a staple.

162. The component of Claim 161 wherein the cover comprises at least one opening in correspondence to the pre-fixing feature and the pre-fixing feature is configured to secure the cover on the outer shell.

163. The component of Claim 159 wherein the cover is stretched during movement of the outer shell and the inner shell together and then permanently held in a position by the projection.

164. The component of Claim 159 wherein the projection comprises a spike or sharp edge or a thin edge on its end and wherein the projection comprises a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a flat shape, a semi-circular shape and a trapezoidal shape.

165. The component of Claim 151 wherein the outer shell is pre-assembled with a foam layer and a seal.

166. The component of Claim 151 wherein the cover comprises at least one of (a) a cover layer (b) a dress, (c) a sewing dress, (d) a foil.

167. The component of Claim 151 wherein the cover and the outer shell are configured to form a subassembly.

168. The component of Claim 151 wherein a prefixation is performed to bring the cover to a position to lie over the in-molded fitting grooves.

169. The component of Claim 151 wherein the outer shell comprises a hook arrangement wherein the hook arrangement is configured to stretch and hold the cover.

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