Component for vehicle interior

Abstract

A component for a vehicle interior is disclosed. The component may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel compression-formed into a structural substrate with a weakened area to initiate / facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag. The weakened area of the fiber panel / structural substrate may comprise a recess and tear line / seam. The fiber panel may comprise a resin feature at / or adjacent to the weakened area to direct formation of the opening for the airbag at the recess. The resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature formed in and / or on the fiber panel; the molded resin feature may comprise a body / plug formed in the recess and a projection / flange formed adjacent to the seam / recess. The composite structure may comprise a molded resin structure / reinforcement for the fiber panel. A method of making the component with the composite structure comprising the fiber panel with the resin feature is also disclosed.

Description

FIP 24066-PCT-US-02PATENT 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 / 735,290 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed December 17, 2024.FIELD

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

[0003] The present invention also relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag.BACKGROUND

[0004] It is known to provide a component for a vehicle interior configured to form an opening for deployment of an airbag.

[0005] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior configured to form an opening for deployment of an airbag.

[0006] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a resin feature configured to direct formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02SUMMARY

[0007] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel and a resin feature; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area comprising a recess; the recess may be formed into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel to direct formation of the opening during deployment of the airbag; the composite structure may comprise a structural substrate; the fiber panel may be compression-formed into the structural substrate; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a void; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise an aperture; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a hole; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a through-hole; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature; the resin feature may comprise an injection-molded resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a body formed into the recess in the fiber panel and a projection formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed on the fiber panel and into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a body formed into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the body of the resin feature may comprise a plug; the body of the resin feature may comprise a beveled section; the resin feature may comprise a projection formed on the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a projection formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess; the projection of the resin feature may comprise a tab; the projection of the resin feature may comprise a flange; the projection of the resin feature may comprise a flap; the component may further comprise a resin structure formed on the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise a reinforcement for the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise the resin feature; the resin structure may comprise a border for the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise a structure formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the tear line may comprise the recess; a resin structure may be formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the tear line; the resin structure may be configured to facilitate formation of the tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin structure may be configured to facilitate formation of the tear line adjacent to the resin feature for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin structureFIP 24066-PCT-US-02may comprise a reinforcement configured to facilitate formation of the tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin structure may comprise a reinforcement configured to facilitate formation of the tear line adjacent to the resin feature for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature comprising a body formed in the fiber panel and a projection formed on the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature comprising a body and a projection; the body may comprise a plug; the projection may comprise a tab; the body may comprise a base; the projection may comprise a flange; the resin feature may be formed in a void in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in the fiber panel and on the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on the fiber panel; the resin feature of the fiber panel of the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise the resin feature formed in a void of the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the recess to facilitate initiation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the recess to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a set of resin features; the resin feature may comprise a molded plug; the resin feature may comprise a set of molded plugs; the body may comprise a shape; the body may comprise a form; the body may comprise a profile; the resin feature may comprise a body and a flange; the resin feature may comprise the body and the flange and a web between the body and the flange; the flange may be configured to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel; the flange may be formed to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel; the flange may be formed to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the flange may comprise a tab formed in the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the flange may comprise a tab formed within the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the flange may comprise a tab formed on the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a flat; the resin feature may comprise a flap; the resin feature mayFIP 24066-PCT-US-02comprise a nose; the resin feature may comprise a bevel-shaped front; the resin feature may comprise a coin-shaped feature; the resin feature may comprise a pad; the resin feature may comprise a plug and a tab; the resin feature may comprise a tab section retained to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may comprise a tab section retained to the fiber panel during formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a distinct tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure comprising the resin feature and a reinforcement web; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the resin feature formed in a void in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the resin feature formed in a void in the fiber panel and a resin web formed on the fiber panel; the resin web may comprise a reinforcement structure; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure comprising the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure on the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure under the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess for formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct theFIP 24066-PCT-US-02formation of an airbag door at the opening; the airbag door may be formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the recess of weakened area may comprise the seam; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.

[0008] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool may comprise the steps of placing a fiber mat in the mold tool, closing the mold tool on the fiber mat, compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel and injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in a recess in the fiber panel; fill in the recess in the fiber panel may comprise a resin feature; the resin feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag through the fiber panel; the method may further comprise the steps of placing the fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool and retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat; the resin material may comprise fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel; the fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in the recess to provide the resin feature configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the fiber mat may comprise the set of holes; the fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise the resin feature formed from the resin material; the resin feature may comprise a plug; the resin feature may comprise a flat; the resin feature may comprise a body and a flange; the resin feature may be attached to the fiber panel at the flange; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the resin feature in the fiber panel; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the resin feature in the hole of the set of holes of the fiber panel; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise a rib; the resin structure may comprise a set of ribs; the set of ribs may be adjacent the resin feature; the method may further comprise the step of forming a seam for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel at the seam; the resin structure may comprise a set of ribs; the resin structure may comprise a set of ribs comprising a wavy shape; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the set of ribs; the resin feature may comprise a plug formed adjacent to the set of ribs; the seam may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the resin feature may comprise a protrusion configured to provide a relief for the notch; the fiber mat may comprise a generally uncompressed fiber mat; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the compressed fiber mat may comprise aFIP 24066-PCT-US-02structural substrate; the method may further comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a cover; the method may further comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel and a cover; the method may further comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the compressed fiber panel and a cover; the composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the composite structure; the composite structure may comprise a generally smooth exterior surface; the component may comprise the composite structure with the resin feature in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the component; the seam may comprise a recess configured to facilitate initiation of a tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag; the seam may comprise a recess adjacent to the resin feature configured to facilitate initiation of a distinct tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag; the seam may comprise a tear line for formation of an airbag door in the composite structure for deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may be formed along the seam; the resin feature may be formed at the seam; the resin feature may be formed on the seam; the resin feature may be formed adjacent the seam; the seam may comprise a U-shaped seam; the seam may comprise an H-shaped seam; the seam may comprise a linearshaped line; the seam may comprise a wavy-shaped line; the resin material may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.; the resin feature may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.; the fiber panel may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.

[0009] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a resin feature at the weakened area; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakenedFIP 24066-PCT-US-02area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature formed in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a void in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure comprising the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure on the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure under the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess for formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the opening; the airbag door may be formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the weakened area may comprise a recess comprising the resin feature; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the recess of weakened area may comprise a seam; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening; the seam may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening; the recess may be configured to form the airbag door; the recess may comprise a linear seam; the recess may comprise a wavy seam; the resin feature may be formed by injecting resin material into a mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in a set of holes in the fiber panel; the fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide the resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a resin-filled feature configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the fiber panel may be formed from a fiber mat comprising the set of holes; the fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise the resin feature formed from the resin material; the fill may comprise resin material; the fill may comprise resin; the resin material may comprise a resin; the resin feature may comprise a resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a plug; the resin featureFIP 24066-PCT-US-02may comprise a flat; the resin feature may comprise a body and a flange; the resin feature may be attached to the fiber panel at the flange; the flange may be molded into the fiber panel; the flange may be molded onto the fiber panel; the flange may be formed into an indentation in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure; the resin structure may comprise a rib; the weakened area may comprise a generally H-shaped area; the weakened area may comprise a generally U-shaped area; the fiber panel may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface; the recess may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface; the resin feature may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel; the recess may be configured to form a seam for an opening through the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening; the resin feature may comprise a multi-side form; the multi-side form may comprise a coin-shaped form; the multi-side form may comprise a generally trapezoidal form; the resin feature may comprise a variable depth; the weakened area may comprise a transition area; the transition area may comprise the resin feature; the transition area may comprise a flange of the resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a generally curved form; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the recess; the resin feature may comprise a ridge segment; the resin feature may comprise a thickness less than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness greater than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel has a nominal average thickness in the base area and the reduced thickness at the weakened area; the recess for the weakened area may comprise a center recess and a set of lateral recesses; the weakened area may comprise the set of lateral recesses connected by the center recess; the center recess may comprise a connector; the resin feature may comprise a set of segments; the resin feature may comprise a set of sections; the weakened area may comprise a set of segments; the set of segments may comprise a set of lateral segments connected by a center line; the recess may comprise a formed recess; the recess may comprise an indentation; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed adjacent to the indentation; the recess may comprise a groove; the groove may be formed in the fiber panel; the groove may comprise a wavy line; the resin structure may comprise a wavy line; the resin structure may comprise a generally straight line; the resin structure may comprise a generally H-shaped line; the resin structure may comprise a generally U-shaped line; the resin feature may comprise a generally flat bottom; the resin feature may comprise a tapered edge; the resin feature may comprise a generally curved form and a generally flat form; the resin feature may comprise a rounded form comprising a generally flat bottom; the resin feature may comprise a multi-segmented form;FIP 24066-PCT-US-02the resin feature may comprise a transition section; the resin feature may be formed at the weakened area in the fiber panel; the component may further comprise a structure formed on the fiber panel; the structure may comprise an injection-molded resin; the structure may comprise a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the set of ribs may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door; the fiber of the fiber panel may be at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure; the fiber panel may comprise a compression-formed fiber panel; the recess may comprise at least one of a tear line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag and / or a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the component may further comprise a cover on the fiber panel; the weakened area may be not generally visible at the cover; the component may comprise at least one of a trim panel, an instrument panel, a door panel, a pillar, etc.; the component may further comprise a structure formed onto the fiber panel; the structure may comprise an injection-molded resin; the structure may comprise a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the set of ribs may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door; the fiber panel may comprise fibers; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in an indentation in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a void in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed partially in a void in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole for a holding pin of a fiber mat compressed into the compressed fiber panel; the recess may be formed in a mold by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold and penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the resin feature may be formed in a mold by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold and penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the void for the resin feature in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the recess may comprise a path comprising at least one of a continuous wave portion comprising a periodic function and / or a sinusoidal shape; the composite structure may comprise a resin feature formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; the resin feature may be configured to direct deployment of the airbagFIP 24066-PCT-US-02through the panel; the resin feature may comprise the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise a resin rib formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; the resin rib may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the resin rib extends from the recess below the rear side of the fiber panel; the recess may comprise a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; the connector may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the fiber panel may comprise a rib adjacent the connector of the recess at the rear side of the panel; the rib may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the rib may comprise a first rib on a side of the connector and a second rib on an opposite side of the connector; the resin feature may be formed in a cavity in the fiber panel; the profile of the cavity may comprise at least one of a bevel, a fillet, a chamfer, etc.; the profile of the resin feature may comprise at least one of a bevel, a fillet, a chamfer, etc.; the front side of the fiber panel may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess; the resin feature may be formed in an indentation in the rear side of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the indentation in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a cavity in the rear side of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a cavity in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness partially corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness partially corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a set of facets; the set of facets may comprise a surface generally parallel to the front side of the panel; the resin feature may comprise at least one angled surface; the composite structure may comprise a panel assembly.

[0010] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The feature may comprise a molded resin feature. The feature may comprise a molded resin feature formed in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a void in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel. The feature may be injection moldedFIP 24066-PCT-US-02in the fiber panel. The feature may be injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on and / or in the fiber panel. The resin structure may comprise the feature. The resin structure may comprise the feature formed in a void of the fiber panel. The void may be formed by a holding pin. The feature may be formed adjacent the recess to facilitate initiation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may be formed adjacent the recess to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a set of features. The feature may comprise a molded plug. The feature may comprise a set of molded plugs. The feature may comprise a plug formed at a hole in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a plug formed at a hole for a hanger pin in a fiber mat formed into the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a body and a tab. The feature may comprise a flange and a body. The flange may comprise a tab. The body may comprise a shape. The body may comprise a form. The body may comprise a profile. The feature may comprise a web between the body and the flange. The flange may be configured to retain the feature to the fiber panel. The flange may be formed to retain the feature to the fiber panel. The flange may be formed to retain the feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel. The flange may comprise a tab formed in the fiber panel to retain the feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel. The flange may comprise a tab formed within the fiber panel to retain the feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel. The flange may comprise a tab formed on the fiber panel to retain the feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a flat. The feature may comprise a flap. The feature may comprise a nose. The feature may comprise a bevel-shaped front. The feature may comprise a coinshaped feature. The feature may comprise a pad. The feature may comprise a tab. The feature may comprise a plug and a tab. The feature may comprise a tab section retained to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a tab section retained to the fiber panel during formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag. The feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitateFIP 24066-PCT-US-02formation of a tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag during deployment of the airbag. The feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a distinct tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

[0011] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure comprising the feature and a reinforcement web. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the feature formed in a void in the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the feature formed in a void in the fiber panel and a resin web formed on the fiber panel. The resin web may comprise a reinforcement structure. The composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the feature and a resin structure. The composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the feature and a resin structure comprising the feature. The composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the feature and a resin structure on the feature. The composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the feature and a resin structure under the feature. The composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the feature and a resin structure adjacent to the feature. The composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess. The composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess for formation of the opening.

[0012] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structureFIP 24066-PCT-US-02comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening. The recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the opening. The airbag door may be formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The weakened area may comprise a recess comprising the feature. The weakened area may comprise a seam. The recess of weakened area may comprise a seam. The seam may be configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening. The seam may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening. The recess may be configured to form the airbag door. The recess may comprise a linear seam. The recess may comprise a wavy seam.

[0013] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The feature may be formed by injecting resin material into a mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel. The resin material may comprise fill in a set of holes in the fiber panel. Fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide the feature. The feature may comprise a resin-filled feature configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The fiber panel may be formed from a fiber mat comprising the set of holes. Fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise the feature formed from the resin material. Fill may comprise resin material. Fill may comprise resin. The resin material may comprise a resin. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The feature may comprise a plug. The feature may comprise a flat. The feature may comprise a body and a flange. The feature may be attached to the fiber panel at the flange. The flange may be molded into the fiber panel. The flange may be molded onto the fiber panel. The flange may be formed into an indentation in the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0014] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure. The resin structure may comprise a rib. The weakened area may comprise a generally H-shaped area. The weakened area may comprise a generally U-shaped area. The fiber panel may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface; the recess may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel. The fiber panel may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface; the feature may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel. The recess may be configured to form a seam for an opening through the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening. The feature may comprise a multi-side form. The multi-side form may comprise a coin-shaped form. The multi-side form may comprise a generally trapezoidal form. The feature may comprise a variable depth. The weakened area may comprise a transition area. The transition area may comprise the feature. The transition area may comprise a flange of the feature. The feature may comprise a generally curved form. The feature may be formed adjacent to the recess; the feature may comprise a ridge segment. The feature may comprise a thickness less than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a thickness greater than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel. The fiber panel has a nominal average thickness in the base area and the reduced thickness at the weakened area. The recess for the weakened area may comprise a center recess and a set of lateral recesses; the weakened area may comprise the set of lateral recesses connected by the center recess; the center recess may comprise a connector.

[0015] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The feature may comprise a set of segments. The feature may comprise a set of sections. TheFIP 24066-PCT-US-02weakened area may comprise a set of segments. The set of segments may comprise a set of lateral segments connected by a center line. The recess may comprise a formed recess. The recess may comprise an indentation. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed adjacent to the indentation. The recess may comprise a groove; the groove may be formed in the fiber panel. The groove may comprise a wavy line. The resin structure may comprise a wavy line. The resin structure may comprise a generally straight line. The resin structure may comprise a generally H-shaped line. The resin structure may comprise a generally U-shaped line. The feature may comprise a generally flat bottom. The feature may comprise a tapered edge. The feature may comprise a generally curved form and a generally flat form. The feature may comprise a rounded form comprising a generally flat bottom. The feature may comprise a multi -segmented form. The feature may comprise a transition section. The feature may be formed at the weakened area in the fiber panel.

[0016] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. A structure may be formed on the fiber panel; the structure may comprise an injection-molded resin; the structure may comprise a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the set of ribs may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door. Fiber of the fiber panel may be at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure. The fiber panel may comprise a compression-formed fiber panel. The recess may comprise at least one of (a) a tear line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; (b) a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag. The composite structure may comprise a cover on the fiber panel; the weakened area may be not generally visible at the cover.

[0017] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of theFIP 24066-PCT-US-02fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. A structure may be formed onto the fiber panel; the structure may comprise an injection-molded resin. The structure may comprise a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the set of ribs may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door. The fiber panel may comprise fibers. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the feature may be formed in an indentation in the compressed fiber panel. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the feature may be formed in a void in the compressed fiber panel. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the feature may be formed partially in a void in the compressed fiber panel. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the feature may be formed in a hole in the compressed fiber panel. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the feature may be formed in a hole for a holding pin of a fiber mat compressed into the compressed fiber panel.

[0018] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The recess may be formed in a mold by: (a) compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side. The feature may be formed in a mold by: (a) compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the void for the feature in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

[0019] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. TheFIP 24066-PCT-US-02recess may comprise a path comprising at least one of (a) a continuous wave portion comprising a periodic function; (b) a sinusoidal shape. The composite structure may comprise a resin feature formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; the resin feature may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel. The feature may comprise the resin feature. The composite structure may comprise a resin rib formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; the resin rib may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The resin rib may extend from the recess below the rear side of the fiber panel. The recess may comprise a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; the connector may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the fiber panel may comprise a rib adjacent the connector of the recess at the rear side of the panel; the rib may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape. The rib may comprise a first rib on a side of the connector and a second rib on an opposite side of the connector. The feature may be formed in a cavity in the fiber panel. The profile of the cavity may comprise at least one of (a) a bevel; (b) a fillet; (c) a chamfer. The profile of the feature may comprise at least one of (a) a bevel; (b) a fillet; (c) a chamfer. The front side of the fiber panel may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess. The feature may be formed in an indentation in the rear side of the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the indentation in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a cavity in the rear side of the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a cavity in the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a thickness partially corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a thickness partially corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a set of facets; the set of facets may comprise a surface generally parallel to the front side of the panel. The feature may comprise at least one angled surface.

[0020] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool comprising the steps of (a) placing a fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool; (b) closing the mold tool on the fiber mat; (c) retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat; (d) compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel; (e) injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel; fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide a feature; the feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment ofFIP 24066-PCT-US-02an airbag through the fiber panel. The fiber mat may comprise the set of holes. The fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise the feature formed from the resin material. The resin material may comprise a resin. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The feature may comprise a plug. The feature may comprise a flat. The feature may comprise a body and a flange. The feature may be attached to the fiber panel at the flange. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the feature as a resin feature in the fiber panel. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the feature as a resin feature in the hole of the set of holes of the fiber panel. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel. The resin structure may comprise a rib. The resin structure may comprise a set of ribs. The set of ribs may be adjacent the feature. The method may comprise the step of forming a seam for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel at the seam. The resin structure may comprise a set of ribs. The resin structure may comprise a set of ribs comprising a wavy shape. The feature may be formed adjacent to the set of ribs. The feature may comprise a plug formed adjacent to the set of ribs. The seam may comprise a recess. The recess may comprise a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel. The feature may comprise a protrusion configured to provide a relief for the notch. The fiber mat may comprise a generally uncompressed fiber mat. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel. The compressed fiber mat may comprise a structural substrate.

[0021] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool comprising the steps of (a) placing a fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool; (b) closing the mold tool on the fiber mat; (c) retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat; (d) compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel; (e) injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel; fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide a feature; the feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag through the fiber panel. The method may comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise a cover. The method may comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel and a cover. The method may comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the compressed fiber panel and a cover. The composite structure mayFIP 24066-PCT-US-02comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the feature in the compressed fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the composite structure. The composite structure may comprise a generally smooth exterior surface.

[0022] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool comprising the steps of (a) placing a fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool; (b) closing the mold tool on the fiber mat; (c) retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat; (d) compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel; (e) injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel; fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide a feature; the feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag through the fiber panel. The component may comprise the composite structure with the feature in the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the component. The seam may comprise a recess configured to facilitate initiation of a tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag. The seam may comprise a recess adjacent to the feature configured to facilitate initiation of a distinct tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag. The seam may comprise a tear line for formation of an airbag door in the composite structure for deployment of the airbag. The feature may be formed along the seam. The feature may be formed at the seam. The feature may be formed on the seam. The feature may be formed adjacent the seam. The seam may comprise a U-shaped seam. The seam may comprise an H-shaped seam. The seam may comprise a linearshaped line. The seam may comprise a wavy-shaped line.

[0023] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool comprising the steps of (a) placing a fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool; (b) closing the mold tool on the fiber mat; (c) retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat; (d) compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel; (e) injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel; fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide a feature; the feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment ofFIP 24066-PCT-US-02an airbag through the fiber panel. The resin material may comprise at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate. The feature may comprise at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate. The fiber panel may comprise at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate.

[0024] The component may comprise at least one of (a) a trim panel; (b) an instrument panel; (c) a door panel; (d) a pillar. The composite structure may comprise a panel assembly.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02FIGURES

[0025] FIGURE 1 A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIGURE IB is a schematic perspective section view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURES 2A through 2C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURES 3A through 3C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURES 4A through 4C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIGURES 5A through 5C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURES 6A through 6C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIGURE 7 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] FIGURES 7A through 7D are schematic perspective detail views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0034] FIGURE 8A is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] FIGURE 8B is a schematic perspective detail view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] FIGURE 8C is a schematic side elevation detail view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] FIGURES 9A and 9B are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] FIGURES 10A and 10B are schematic top plan views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] FIGURES 11 A through 11C are schematic side elevation views of a recess for a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIGURES 12A and 12B are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0041] FIGURES 13 A and 13B are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] FIGURES 14A and 14B are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] FIGURES 15A and 15B are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] FIGURES 16A and 16B are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] FIGURES 17A through 171 are schematic perspective views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] FIGURES 18A through 18J are schematic perspective views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] FIGURES 19A and 19B are schematic perspective views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] FIGURE 20A is a schematic perspective view of a fiber mat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] FIGURE 20B is a schematic side elevation detail view of a fiber mat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0050] FIGURE 21 is a schematic perspective view of a fiber mat according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] FIGURE 22A is a schematic perspective view of a fiber panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] FIGURE 22B is a schematic side elevation detail view of a fiber panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] FIGURE 23 A is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] FIGURE 23B is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0055] FIGURE 23C is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] FIGURE 24A is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0057] FIGURE 24B is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0058] FIGURE 24C is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] FIGURE 25A is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] FIGURE 25B is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] FIGURE 25C is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] FIGURES 26A and 26B are schematic perspective views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] FIGURE 27A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0064] FIGURE 27B is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] FIGURE 28A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0066] FIGURES 28B and 28C are schematic side elevation views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] FIGURE 29A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0068] FIGURES 29B and 29C are schematic side elevation views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0069] FIGURE 30A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] FIGURE 30B is a schematic perspective view of an airbag chute for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0071] FIGURE 31 A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] FIGURE 3 IB is a schematic perspective view of an airbag chute for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] FIGURE 32A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0074] FIGURE 32B is a schematic perspective detail view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0075] FIGURE 33A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0076] FIGURE 33B is a schematic perspective detail view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0077] FIGURE 34A is a schematic perspective section view of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] FIGURE 34B is a schematic perspective view of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] FIGURE 34C is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0080] FIGURE 34D is a schematic perspective detail view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0081] FIGURE 34E is a schematic perspective detail view of a recess for a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0082] FIGURE 34F is a schematic perspective detail view of a structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] FIGURE 34G is a schematic perspective detail view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0084] FIGURES 35 A through 35D are schematic side elevation views of a method of manufacturing a composite structure according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0085] FIGURE 35E is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0086] FIGURES 36A through 36D are schematic side elevation views of a method of manufacturing a composite structure according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0087] FIGURE 36E is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0088] FIGURES 37A through 37E are schematic side elevation views of a method of manufacturing a composite structure according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0089] FIGURE 37F is a schematic side elevation view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0090] FIGURE 38 is a schematic perspective view of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0091] FIGURES 39A and 39B are schematic perspective views of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0092] FIGURE 39C is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0093] FIGURES 40A and 40B are schematic side elevation detail views of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0094] FIGURES 41 A and 41B are schematic perspective views of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0095] FIGURES 42A through 42C are schematic side elevation views of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0096] FIGURES 43A through 43C are schematic side elevation views of a tool according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0097] FIGURE 44A is a schematic perspective view of a feature for a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0098] FIGURE 44B is a schematic side elevation view of a feature for a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0099] FIGURE 45A is a schematic perspective view of a feature for a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0100] FIGURE 45B is a schematic side elevation view of a feature for a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0101] FIGURE 46A is a schematic perspective view of a feature for a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0102] FIGURE 46B is a schematic side elevation view of a feature for a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0103] FIGURES 47A and 47B are schematic side elevation views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0104] FIGURES 48A and 48B are schematic side elevation views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0105] FIGURE 49A is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0106] FIGURES 49B and 49C are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0107] FIGURE 50A is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0108] FIGURES 50B and 50C are schematic top plan views of a composite structure for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0109] FIGURES 51 A and 5 IB are schematic top plan views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0110] FIGURES 52A and 52B are schematic top plan views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0111] FIGURE 53 is a schematic top plan detail view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0112] FIGURES 54A through 541 are schematic top plan views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02DESCRIPTION

[0114] Referring to FIGURES 1 A-1B a vehicle V comprising a vehicle interior VI is shown according to an exemplary embodiment; vehicle interior comprises components including trim panels shown as instrument panel IP and door panel DP and console shown as floor / center console FC and steering wheel SW, etc.

[0115] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C, 47A-47B and 48A-48B, a component C such as instrument panel IP in the vehicle interior may comprise a panel / composite structure configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB (e.g. from an airbag module) through an opening providing an airbag door ABD; as indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 7A-7D, 8A-8D, 9A-9B, 10A-10B and 11A-11C, the component C may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP configured to provide a structural substrate SB and a resin feature FT formed in a recess RS at a seam shown as a tear line CR (e.g. score line, weakened line, formed seam / groove, etc.) for the opening and formation of the airbag door ABD; resin feature FT in recess RS is provided in the composite structure at a seam / tear line CR to provide a weakened area in the composite structure CS of component C for formation of an opening shown as door ABD for deployment of airbag AB. See FIGURES 3 A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C and 6A-6C.

[0116] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 47A-47B and 48A-48B, the resin feature FT within recess RS are provided at the seam CR to direct formation of the opening for airbag AB during deployment (from airbag housing ABH and / or airbag module ABM) through the composite structure CS of component C at the seam shown as tear line CR; a resin structure SR may be formed on the fiber panel / substrate FP / SB; resin structure SR may be configured to provide a reinforcement RB for the composite structure CS and component C. See FIGURES 2A-2C, 7A-7D, 8A-8D, 9A-9B, 10A-10B, 11 A-l 1C, 49A-49C and 50A-50C.

[0117] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 7A-7D, 8A-8D, 9A-9B, 10A-10B, 11A-11C, 47A-47B and 48A-48B, feature FT and recess RS at seam / tear line SR are configured to provide a weakened area in the composite structure CS and component C to initiate / facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag; the weakened area of the fiber panel / structural substrate FP / SB may comprise a recess RS and tear line / seam CR; fiber panel FP / SB may comprise resin feature FT in recess RS at / or adjacent to the weakened area to direct formation of the opening for the airbag at the recess.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0118] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 16A-16B, 17A-17I, 18A-18J, 23A-23B, 24A-24B, 25A-25B, 32A-32B, 33A-33B, 44A-44B, 45A-45B, 46A-46B and 54A-54I, resin feature FT may comprise a molded resin feature formed in and / or on the fiber panel; molded resin feature FT may comprise a body / plug FTb configured to formed in the recess RS and a projection / flange FTt configured to be formed adjacent to the seam / recess SC for attachment to the fiber panel FP; as indicated schematically; resin feature FT may comprise any of a variety of shapes / forms and etc. (e.g. rounded form, rectilinear form, multi-shape form, multifaceted form, circular form, rectangle form, tab-shaped form, beveled form, projection form, plug form, linear form, multi-segment form, etc.); the resin feature may be configured to fill / form to the shape of a recess (e.g. within the form, conforming to the form, in / adjacent to the form, etc.). See also FIGURES 47A-47C, 48A-47C, 49A-49C, 50A-50C, 52A-52B and 53.

[0119] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 7A-7D, 8A-8D, 9A-9B, 10A-10B and 11A-11C, composite structure CS may comprise a molded resin structure / reinforcement SR / RB for the fiber panel FP / SB with ribs / structure configured to fit with the form of the seam / tear line RS / CR (e.g. line, wavy line, etc.) with resin feature FT; as indicated schematically in FIGURES 12A-12B, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 44A-44B, 45A-45B, 46A-46B and 54A-54I, resin feature FT may be configured to be formed in the recess RS and / or along the seam / tear line CR and / or with the molded resin reinforcement / structure RB / SR to facilitate directed initiation of the formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the composite structure CS of component C; molded resin reinforcement / structure RB / SR may be provided as a reinforcement, structure, rib, framework / frame, border, pattern, etc. formed on the fiber panel FP / SB of the composite structure CS for the panel PN / PL of the component C (e.g. at a position, shape, form, size, thickness, configuration, etc. as selected with resinfeature / structure fit / formed into and onto the panel / component). See also FIGURES 17A-171, 18A-18J, 19A-19B, 28A-28C, 29A-29C, 30A-30B, 31A-31B, 32A-32B, 33A-33B, 49A-49C, 50A-50C, 52A-52B and 53.

[0120] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 9A-9B, 12A-12B, 18A-18J, 19A-19B, 20A-20B, 21, 22A-22B, 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C, 26A-26B, 27A-27B, 34A-34G, 35A-35E, 36A-36E, 37A-37F, 38, 39A-39C, 40A-40B, 41A-41B, 42A-42C and 43A-43C, composite structure CS may be compression-formed from a fiber mat FM into the structural substrate FP / SB in a tool system comprising oven MXv and forming / molding tool MXt (e.g. mold sections, injection molding apparatus, etc.) configured with base section and projectionFIP 24066-PCT-US-02PR (including pins, holding pins, etc.) to create recess RS and seam / tear line CR and to fill / form resin feature FT and resin structure RB / SR; composite structure CS is formed from fiber mat FT to fiber panel FP into a compression-formed structural substrate PN / PL with recess RS and seam CP and with resin feature / structure FT / SR formed / fit to facilitate formation of the opening for airbag through component C and to provide an exterior / surface TX appearance at cover T (e.g. to provide a suitable appearance, decorative effect, substantially to conceal the recess, seam, tear line, resin feature, etc.). See also FIGURES 19A-19B.

[0121] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 7A-7D, 8A-8D, 9A-9B, 10A-10B, 11A-11C, 12A-12B, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17A-17I, 18A-18J, 19A-19B, 28A-28C, 29A-29C, 30A-30B, 31A-31B, 32A-32B, 33A-33B, 44A-44B, 45A-45B, 46A-46B and 54A-54I, composite structure CS for component C is formed with resin feature FT fill-formed at / in recess RS a seam CR to provide a weakened area for component C; recess RS at the weakened area of fiber panel FP may comprise a void, aperture, hole, through-hole, etc. with resin feature FT as an injection-molded resin feature filled at / in the void, aperture, hole, through-hole, etc.; resin feature FT may be formed into the recess RS in the fiber panel FP (e.g. as a plug, fill, etc.); resin feature FT may comprise a body FTb formed into the recess RS in the fiber panel FP (e.g. as a plug, fill, etc.) and a projection FTt formed on the fiber panel FP adjacent to the recess RS at the weakened area (e.g. as a flange, tab, attachment, flap, etc.); as indicated schematically, resin feature FT may be configured to fit / fill into a form / shape corresponding to recess RS and form / shape of panel PN / PL of composite structure CS as compression-formed from fiber panel FP as structural substrate SB for component C; as indicated schematically, molded resin structure RB / SR may be formed onto fiber panel FP with molded resin feature FT formed into / onto fiber panel FP at recess RS (e.g. at / near, along seam CR). See also FIGURES 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C, 26A-26B, 27A-27B, 37A-37F, 49A-49C, 50A-50C, 52A-52B and 53.

[0122] As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 10A-10B, 28A-28C, 29A-29C, 49A-49C, 50A-50C, 52A-52B and 54A-54I, the resin feature FT may be provided at / into recess RS for a seam / tear line CR having any of a variety of shapes / forms (e.g. H-shape, U-shape, line, linear-shape, wavy-line shape, etc.) in the composite structure CS for formation of the opening / door for deployment of the airbag AB from component C; the resin structure SR / RB for fiber panel FP of composite structure CS may be provided at / adjacent or with the resin feature FT. See alsoFIP 24066-PCT-US-02FIGURES 12A-12B, 13A-13B, 14A-14B and 15A-15B, 30A-30B, 31A-31N, 32A-32B, 33A-33B and 53.

[0123] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 16A-16B, 17A-17I, 18A-18J, 49A-49C, 50A-50C, 52A-52B and 54A-54I, the resin feature FT may be formed in any of a variety of positions and / or forms / shapes and / or quantity / number on the fiber panel FP for composite structure CS at / into the recess RS with seam CR for the weakened area to facilitate / initiate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag AB through the component C. See also FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 47A-47B and 48A-48B. As indicated in FIGURES 51A-51B and 52A-52B, the resin feature FT may be provided to facilitate / initiate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through an airbag door ABD formed in the fiber panel / substrate FP / SB of the composite structure for the component at a seam / tear line CR in a manner / location as intended by design (see FIGURES 52A-52B) rather than at a flaw creating a seam / tear line CRX in a manner / location unintended by design (see FIGURES 51A-51B). See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 47A-47B and 48A-48B.

[0124] According to an exemplary embodiment as indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the position / spacing (e.g. center, off-set, edge, etc.) and / or form / shape (e.g. rectilinear, curved, circular, triangular, rounded, strip / linear, beveled, multi-shape, etc.) and / or number / quantity (e.g. single, multiple, etc.) of the resin feature with the recess is configured to facilitate / direct formation of a tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the composite structure and component for the vehicle interior.

[0125] According to an exemplary embodiment as indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the component may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel compression-formed into a structural substrate with a weakened area to initiate / facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag. The weakened area of the fiber panel / structural substrate may comprise a recess and tear line / seam. The fiber panel may comprise a resin feature at / or adjacent to the weakened area to direct formation of the opening for the airbag at the recess. The resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature formed in and / or on the fiber panel; the molded resin feature may comprise a body / plug formed in the recess and a projection / flange formed adjacent to the seam / recess. The composite structure may comprise a molded resin structure / reinforcement for the fiber panel. The method of making the component with the composite structure comprising the fiber panel with the resin feature is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02Exemplary Embodiments - A

[0126] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1 through 54A-54I, a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel and a resin feature; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area comprising a recess; the recess may be formed into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel to direct formation of the opening during deployment of the airbag; the composite structure may comprise a structural substrate; the fiber panel may be compression-formed into the structural substrate; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a void; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise an aperture; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a hole; the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a through-hole; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature; the resin feature may comprise an injection-molded resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a body formed into the recess in the fiber panel and a projection formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed on the fiber panel and into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a body formed into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the body of the resin feature may comprise a plug; the body of the resin feature may comprise a beveled section; the resin feature may comprise a projection formed on the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a projection formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess; the projection of the resin feature may comprise a tab; the projection of the resin feature may comprise a flange; the projection of the resin feature may comprise a flap; the component may further comprise a resin structure formed on the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise a reinforcement for the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise the resin feature; the resin structure may comprise a border for the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise a structure formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the tear line may comprise the recess; a resin structure may be formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the tear line; the resin structure may be configured to facilitate formation of the tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin structure may be configured to facilitate formation of the tear line adjacent to the resin feature for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panelFIP 24066-PCT-US-02during deployment of the airbag; the resin structure may comprise a reinforcement configured to facilitate formation of the tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin structure may comprise a reinforcement configured to facilitate formation of the tear line adjacent to the resin feature for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature comprising a body formed in the fiber panel and a projection formed on the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature comprising a body and a projection; the body may comprise a plug; the projection may comprise a tab; the body may comprise a base; the projection may comprise a flange; the resin feature may be formed in a void in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in the fiber panel and on the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on the fiber panel; the resin feature of the fiber panel of the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise the resin feature formed in a void of the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the recess to facilitate initiation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the recess to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a set of resin features; the resin feature may comprise a molded plug; the resin feature may comprise a set of molded plugs; the body may comprise a shape; the body may comprise a form; the body may comprise a profile; the resin feature may comprise a body and a flange; the resin feature may comprise the body and the flange and a web between the body and the flange; the flange may be configured to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel; the flange may be formed to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel; the flange may be formed to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the flange may comprise a tab formed in the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the flange may comprise a tab formed within the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the flange may comprise a tab formed on the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel; the resin feature mayFIP 24066-PCT-US-02comprise a flat; the resin feature may comprise a flap; the resin feature may comprise a nose; the resin feature may comprise a bevel-shaped front; the resin feature may comprise a coinshaped feature; the resin feature may comprise a pad; the resin feature may comprise a plug and a tab; the resin feature may comprise a tab section retained to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may comprise a tab section retained to the fiber panel during formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of a distinct tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure comprising the resin feature and a reinforcement web; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the resin feature formed in a void in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the resin feature formed in a void in the fiber panel and a resin web formed on the fiber panel; the resin web may comprise a reinforcement structure; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure comprising the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure on the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure under the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess for formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening;FIP 24066-PCT-US-02the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the opening; the airbag door may be formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the recess of weakened area may comprise the seam; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.

[0127] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1 through 54A-54I, a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool may comprise the steps of placing a fiber mat in the mold tool, closing the mold tool on the fiber mat, compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel and injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in a recess in the fiber panel; fill in the recess in the fiber panel may comprise a resin feature; the resin feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag through the fiber panel; the method may further comprise the steps of placing the fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool and retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat; the resin material may comprise fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel; the fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in the recess to provide the resin feature configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the fiber mat may comprise the set of holes; the fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise the resin feature formed from the resin material; the resin feature may comprise a plug; the resin feature may comprise a flat; the resin feature may comprise a body and a flange; the resin feature may be attached to the fiber panel at the flange; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the resin feature in the fiber panel; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the resin feature in the hole of the set of holes of the fiber panel; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel; the resin structure may comprise a rib; the resin structure may comprise a set of ribs; the set of ribs may be adjacent the resin feature; the method may further comprise the step of forming a seam for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag; the step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel at the seam; the resin structure may comprise a set of ribs; the resin structure may comprise a set of ribs comprising a wavy shape; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the set of ribs; the resin feature may comprise a plug formed adjacent to the set of ribs; the seam may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the resin feature may comprise a protrusion configured to provide a reliefFIP 24066-PCT-US-02for the notch; the fiber mat may comprise a generally uncompressed fiber mat; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the compressed fiber mat may comprise a structural substrate; the method may further comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a cover; the method may further comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel and a cover; the method may further comprise the step of producing a composite structure comprising the compressed fiber panel and a cover; the composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the composite structure; the composite structure may comprise a generally smooth exterior surface; the component may comprise the composite structure with the resin feature in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the component; the seam may comprise a recess configured to facilitate initiation of a tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag; the seam may comprise a recess adjacent to the resin feature configured to facilitate initiation of a distinct tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag; the seam may comprise a tear line for formation of an airbag door in the composite structure for deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may be formed along the seam; the resin feature may be formed at the seam; the resin feature may be formed on the seam; the resin feature may be formed adjacent the seam; the seam may comprise a U-shaped seam; the seam may comprise an H-shaped seam; the seam may comprise a linearshaped line; the seam may comprise a wavy-shaped line; the resin material may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.; the resin feature may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.; the fiber panel may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.

[0128] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1 through 54A-54I, a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakenedFIP 24066-PCT-US-02area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a resin feature at the weakened area; the resin feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin feature formed in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a void in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure comprising the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure on the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure under the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess for formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the opening; the airbag door may be formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the weakened area may comprise a recess comprising the resin feature; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the recess of weakened area may comprise a seam; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening; the seam may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening; the recess may be configured to form the airbag door; the recess may comprise a linear seam; the recess may comprise a wavy seam; the resin feature may be formed by injecting resin material into a mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in a set of holes in the fiber panel; the fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide the resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a resin-filled feature configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the fiber panel may be formed from a fiber mat comprising the set of holes; the fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise the resinFIP 24066-PCT-US-02feature formed from the resin material; the fill may comprise resin material; the fill may comprise resin; the resin material may comprise a resin; the resin feature may comprise a resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a plug; the resin feature may comprise a flat; the resin feature may comprise a body and a flange; the resin feature may be attached to the fiber panel at the flange; the flange may be molded into the fiber panel; the flange may be molded onto the fiber panel; the flange may be formed into an indentation in the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure; the resin structure may comprise a rib; the weakened area may comprise a generally H-shaped area; the weakened area may comprise a generally U-shaped area; the fiber panel may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface; the recess may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface; the resin feature may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel; the recess may be configured to form a seam for an opening through the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening; the resin feature may comprise a multi-side form; the multi-side form may comprise a coin-shaped form; the multiside form may comprise a generally trapezoidal form; the resin feature may comprise a variable depth; the weakened area may comprise a transition area; the transition area may comprise the resin feature; the transition area may comprise a flange of the resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a generally curved form; the resin feature may be formed adjacent to the recess; the resin feature may comprise a ridge segment; the resin feature may comprise a thickness less than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness greater than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel has a nominal average thickness in the base area and the reduced thickness at the weakened area; the recess for the weakened area may comprise a center recess and a set of lateral recesses; the weakened area may comprise the set of lateral recesses connected by the center recess; the center recess may comprise a connector; the resin feature may comprise a set of segments; the resin feature may comprise a set of sections; the weakened area may comprise a set of segments; the set of segments may comprise a set of lateral segments connected by a center line; the recess may comprise a formed recess; the recess may comprise an indentation; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed adjacent to the indentation; the recess may comprise a groove; the groove may be formed in the fiber panel; the groove may comprise a wavy line; the resin structure may comprise a wavy line; the resin structure may comprise a generally straight line; the resin structure may comprise a generally H-shaped line; the resin structure may comprise a generally U-shaped line; the resin feature may comprise a generally flat bottom; the resin feature may comprise aFIP 24066-PCT-US-02tapered edge; the resin feature may comprise a generally curved form and a generally flat form; the resin feature may comprise a rounded form comprising a generally flat bottom; the resin feature may comprise a multi-segmented form; the resin feature may comprise a transition section; the resin feature may be formed at the weakened area in the fiber panel; the component may further comprise a structure formed on the fiber panel; the structure may comprise an injection-molded resin; the structure may comprise a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the set of ribs may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door; the fiber of the fiber panel may be at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure; the fiber panel may comprise a compression-formed fiber panel; the recess may comprise at least one of a tear line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag and / or a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the component may further comprise a cover on the fiber panel; the weakened area may be not generally visible at the cover; the component may comprise at least one of a trim panel, an instrument panel, a door panel, a pillar, etc.; the component may further comprise a structure formed onto the fiber panel; the structure may comprise an injection-molded resin; the structure may comprise a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; the set of ribs may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door; the fiber panel may comprise fibers; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in an indentation in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a void in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed partially in a void in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole for a holding pin of a fiber mat compressed into the compressed fiber panel; the recess may be formed in a mold by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold and penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the resin feature may be formed in a mold by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold and penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the void for the resin feature in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the recess may comprise a path comprising at least one of a continuous wave portion comprising a periodicFIP 24066-PCT-US-02function and / or a sinusoidal shape; the composite structure may comprise a resin feature formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; the resin feature may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the resin feature may comprise the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise a resin rib formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; the resin rib may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the resin rib extends from the recess below the rear side of the fiber panel; the recess may comprise a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; the connector may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the fiber panel may comprise a rib adjacent the connector of the recess at the rear side of the panel; the rib may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the rib may comprise a first rib on a side of the connector and a second rib on an opposite side of the connector; the resin feature may be formed in a cavity in the fiber panel; the profile of the cavity may comprise at least one of a bevel, a fillet, a chamfer, etc.; the profile of the resin feature may comprise at least one of a bevel, a fillet, a chamfer, etc.; the front side of the fiber panel may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess; the resin feature may be formed in an indentation in the rear side of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the indentation in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a cavity in the rear side of the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a cavity in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness partially corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a thickness partially corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel; the resin feature may comprise a set of facets; the set of facets may comprise a surface generally parallel to the front side of the panel; the resin feature may comprise at least one angled surface; the composite structure may comprise a panel assembly.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02Exemplary Embodiments - B

[0129] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1 through 54A-54I, a component may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate with a weakened area to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag. The weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a seam or recess. The fiber panel may comprise a feature at / or adjacent to the weakened area. The feature may be provided to initiate / facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag at the seam / recess in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a molded feature such as a molded resin feature; the feature may be formed in and / or on the fiber panel.

[0130] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1 through 54A-54I, a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the fiber panel may comprise a feature at the weakened area; the feature of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The feature may comprise a molded resin feature. The feature may comprise a molded resin feature formed in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a void in the fiber panel. The feature may be formed in a hole in the fiber panel. The feature may be injection molded in the fiber panel. The feature may be injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise a resin structure formed on and / or in the fiber panel. The resin structure may comprise the feature. The resin structure may comprise the feature formed in a void of the fiber panel. The void may be formed by a holding pin. The feature may be formed adjacent the recess to facilitate initiation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may be formed adjacent the recess to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a set of features. The feature may comprise a molded plug. The feature may comprise a set of molded plugs. The feature may comprise a plug formed at a hole in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a plug formed at a hole for a hanger pin in a fiber mat formed into the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a body and a tab. The feature may comprise a flange and a body.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0131] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1 through 54A-54I, a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool may comprise the steps of (a) placing a fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool; (b) closing the mold tool on the fiber mat; (c) retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat; (d) compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel; (e) injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel; the resin material may comprise fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel; fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide a feature; the feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag through the fiber panel. The fiber mat may comprise the set of holes. The fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel may comprise the feature formed from the resin material. The resin material may comprise a resin. The feature may comprise a resin feature. The feature may comprise a plug. The feature may comprise a flat. The feature may comprise a body and a flange. The feature may be attached to the fiber panel at the flange. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the feature as a resin feature in the fiber panel. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming the feature as a resin feature in the hole of the set of holes of the fiber panel. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel. The resin structure may comprise a rib. The resin structure may comprise a set of ribs. The set of ribs may be adjacent the feature. The method may comprise the step of forming a seam for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag. The step of injecting resin into the mold tool may comprise forming a resin structure on the fiber panel at the seam. The resin structure may comprise a set of ribs. The resin structure may comprise a set of ribs comprising a wavy shape. The feature may be formed adjacent to the set of ribs. The feature may comprise a plug formed adjacent to the set of ribs. The seam may comprise a recess. The recess may comprise a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel. The feature may comprise a protrusion configured to provide a relief for the notch. The fiber mat may comprise a generally uncompressed fiber mat. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel. The compressed fiber mat may comprise a structural substrate.

[0132] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, a method of making the component with the composite structure comprising the fiber panel with the feature may comprise the steps of forming the feature in the fiber panel. As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, an recess in the fiber panel at a seam may comprise initiator hole for formation of the opening for the airbag; the recess / hole may be formed / cut into the natural fiber mat prior to forming theFIP 24066-PCT-US-02composite structure; the mat is heated, compression formed and back injected with plastic resin; the injected resin fills in the initiator hole; the transition line between the natural fiber and the plastic is weak and acts as an initiator to tearing at the seam; a resin structure such as a reinforcement / rib structure prevents tearing where tearing is not desired. As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, an airbag door may show unintended cracking at a composite structure comprising a thick residual wall in the score line unless the resin feature / initiator feature is provided. As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, resin feature / initiator feature can be used for multiple airbag door shapes, including H-doors and U-doors.

[0133] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES,,the component may comprise at least one of a trim panel, an instrument panel, a door panel, an overhead panel, a console, an overhead console, a floor console, an interior component, pillar trim, an operator control, a steering control, a steering wheel, a trunk, a firunk, a hatch, a car rear compartment, a car front compartment, a visor, a vanity, a glove box, a receptacle in an instrument panel.

[0134] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the component may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate with a weakened area to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag. The weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a seam or recess. The fiber panel may comprise a feature at / or adjacent to the weakened area. The feature may be provided to initiate / facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag at the seam / recess in the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a molded feature such as a molded resin feature; the feature may be formed in and / or on the fiber panel. A method of making the component with the composite structure comprising the fiber panel with the feature is also disclosed.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02TABLE A REFERENCE SYMBOL LIST SYMBOL ELEMENT, PART OR COMPONENTV VehicleVI Interiorc Component / trim componentIP Instrument panelDP Door / door panelSW Steering wheelFC Floor consoleABM Airbag moduleAB AirbagABD Airbag doorABH Airbag chute / housingCR Tear line / seam (e.g. score line, etc.)CRX Tear line / seam flaw (e.g. crack, etc.)CS Composite structureFM Fiber matFiber panelFP (e.g. compression-formed component (fiber panel), fiber mat, reinforced fiber panel, etc.)T CoverB BaseSB Substrate / Structural substratePN / PL / NL Panel / panel layerTX Surface (cover)R ResinRS Recess (e.g. hole, aperture, cut, seam / score, etc.) FT Feature (e.g. resin feature, resin form / structure) FTb Feature body / baseFTt / FT+ Feature projection (tab, flange, etc.)SR Structure (e.g. resin structure)RB Structure (e.g. resin structure, reinforcement, rib, etc.) MXv Tool / OvenMX / MXt Tool / MoldMTX Mold topMBX Mold bottomMRX Flow path / resin (mold tool)MHX Hole / voidPR / PRX Projection (e.g. pin, projection, retracting holding pin) (mold tool) tFM Thickness of fiber mattFP Thickness of fiber panel (compression-formed panel)* * *FIP 24066-PCT-US-02

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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 may comprise any other applicable technology (present and / or future) with suitability and / orFIP 24066-PCT-US-02capability 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

FIP 24066-PCT-US-02CLAIMSThe invention claimed is:

1. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising:a composite structure comprising a fiber panel and a resin feature;wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and weakened area comprising a recess; wherein the recess is formed into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel to direct formation of the opening during deployment of the airbag.

2. The component of Claim 1 wherein composite structure comprises a structural substrate.

3. The component of Claim 1 wherein the fiber panel is compression-formed into the structural substrate.

4. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises a void.

5. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises an aperture.

6. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises a hole.

7. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises a through-hole.

8. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded resin feature.

9. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises an injection-molded resin feature.

10. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a body formed into the recess in the fiber panel and a projection formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel.

11. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is formed on the fiber panel and into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-0212. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a body formed into the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel.

13. The component of Claim 1 wherein the body of the resin feature comprises a Plug.

14. The component of Claim 1 wherein the body of the resin feature comprises a beveled section.

15. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a projection formed on the fiber panel.

16. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a projection formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess.

17. The component of Claim 1 wherein the projection of the resin feature comprises a tab.

18. The component of Claim 1 wherein the projection of the resin feature comprises a flange.

19. The component of Claim 1 wherein the projection of the resin feature comprises a flap.

20. The component of Claim 1 further comprising a resin structure formed on the fiber panel.

21. The component of Claim 20 wherein the resin structure comprises a reinforcement for the fiber panel.

22. The component of Claim 20 wherein the resin structure comprises the resin feature.

23. The component of Claim 20 wherein the resin structure comprises a border for the fiber panel.

24. The component of Claim 20 wherein the resin structure comprises a structure formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess at the weakened area of the fiber panel.

25. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is configured to facilitate formation of a tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.FIP 24066-PCT-US-0226. The component of Claim 25 wherein the tear line comprises the recess.

27. The component of Claim 25 wherein a resin structure is formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the tear line.

28. The component of Claim 25 wherein the resin structure is configured to facilitate formation of the tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

29. The component of Claim 25 wherein the resin structure is configured to facilitate formation of the tear line adjacent to the resin feature for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

30. The component of Claim 25 wherein the resin structure comprises a reinforcement configured to facilitate formation of the tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

31. The component of Claim 25 wherein the resin structure comprises a reinforcement configured to facilitate formation of the tear line adjacent to the resin feature for formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

32. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded resin feature comprising a body formed in the fiber panel and a projection formed on the fiber panel.

33. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded resin feature comprising a body and a projection.

34. The component of Claim 1 wherein the body comprises a plug.

35. The component of Claim 1 wherein the projection comprises a tab.

36. The component of Claim 1 wherein the body comprises a base; wherein the projection comprises a flange.

37. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is formed in a void in the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-0238. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is formed in a hole in the fiber panel.

39. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is injection molded in the fiber panel and on the fiber panel.

40. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel.

41. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel.

42. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin structure formed on the fiber panel.

43. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature of the fiber panel of the composite structure comprises a resin structure formed on and / or in the fiber panel.

44. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin structure comprises the resin feature formed in a void of the fiber panel.

45. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is formed adjacent to the recess to facilitate initiation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

46. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is formed adjacent to the recess to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

47. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of resin features.

48. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded plug.

49. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of molded plugs.

50. The component of Claim 1 wherein the body comprises a shape.

51. The component of Claim 1 wherein the body comprises a form.FIP 24066-PCT-US-0252. The component of Claim 1 wherein the body comprises a profile.

53. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a body and a flange.

54. The component of Claim 53 wherein the resin feature comprises the body and the flange and a web between the body and the flange.

55. The component of Claim 53 wherein the flange is configured to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel.

56. The component of Claim 53 wherein the flange is formed to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel.

57. The component of Claim 53 wherein the flange is formed to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel.

58. The component of Claim 53 wherein the flange comprises a tab formed in the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel.

59. The component of Claim 53 wherein the flange comprises a tab formed within the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel.

60. The component of Claim 53 wherein the flange comprises a tab formed on the fiber panel to retain the resin feature to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the opening in the fiber panel.

61. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a flat.

62. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a flap.

63. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a nose.

64. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a bevel-shaped front.

65. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a coin-shaped feature.FIP 24066-PCT-US-0266. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a pad.

67. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a plug and a tab.

68. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a tab section retained to the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

69. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature comprises a tab section retained to the fiber panel during formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.

70. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature of the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of a tear line for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

71. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature of the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

72. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature of the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag during deployment of the airbag.

73. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature of the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of a tear line at the recess for an airbag door providing the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

74. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature of the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of a distinct tear line at the recess for the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

75. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin structure comprising the resin feature and a reinforcement web.

76. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the resin feature formed in a void in the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-0277. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin structure formed in a mold tool comprising the resin feature formed in a void in the fiber panel and a resin web formed on the fiber panel.

78. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin web comprises a reinforcement structure.

79. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure.

80. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure comprising the resin feature.

81. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure on the resin feature.

82. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure under the resin feature.

83. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the resin feature.

84. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess.

85. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess for formation of the opening.

86. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening.

87. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a profile configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the opening.

88. The component of Claim 1 wherein the airbag door is formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

89. The component of Claim 1 wherein the weakened area comprises a seam.

90. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess of weakened area comprises the seam.FIP 24066-PCT-US-0291. The component of Claim 1 wherein the seam is configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.

92. A method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior in a mold tool comprising the steps of:(a) placing a fiber mat in the mold tool;(b) closing the mold tool on the fiber mat;(c) compressing the fiber mat into a fiber panel;(d) injecting resin material into the mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel;wherein the resin material comprises fill in a recess in the fiber panel;wherein fill in the recess in the fiber panel comprises a resin feature;wherein the resin feature is configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag through the fiber panel.

93. The method of Claim 92 further comprising the steps of:placing the fiber mat on a set of pins in the mold tool;retracting the set of pins from a set of holes in the fiber mat;wherein the resin material comprises fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel;wherein fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel comprises fill in the recess to provide the resin feature configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

94. The method of Claim 92 wherein the fiber mat comprises the set of holes.

95. The method of Claim 92 wherein the fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel comprises the resin feature formed from the resin material.

96. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature comprises a plug.

97. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature comprises a flat.

98. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature comprises a body and a flange.

99. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature is attached to the fiber panel at the flange.

100. The method of Claim 92 wherein the step of injecting resin into the mold tool comprises forming the resin feature in the fiber panel.

101. The method of Claim 92 wherein the step of injecting resin into the mold tool comprises forming the resin feature in the hole of the set of holes of the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02102. The method of Claim 92 wherein the step of injecting resin into the mold tool comprises forming a resin structure on the fiber panel.

103. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin structure comprises a rib.

104. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin structure comprises a set of ribs.

105. The method of Claim 92 wherein the set of ribs is adjacent the resin feature.

106. The method of Claim 92 further comprising the step of forming a seam for formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.

107. The method of Claim 106 wherein the step of injecting resin into the mold tool comprises forming a resin structure on the fiber panel at the seam.

108. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin structure comprises a set of ribs.

109. The method of Claim 108 wherein the resin structure comprises a set of ribs comprising a wavy shape.

110. The method of Claim 108 wherein the resin feature is formed adjacent to the set of ribs.

111. The method of Claim 108 wherein the resin feature comprises a plug formed adjacent to the set of ribs.

112. The method of Claim 106 wherein the seam comprises a recess.

113. The method of Claim 92 wherein the recess comprises a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel.

114. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature comprises a protrusion configured to provide a relief for the notch.

115. The method of Claim 92 wherein the fiber mat comprises a generally uncompressed fiber mat.

116. The method of Claim 92 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compressed fiber panel.

117. The method of Claim 92 wherein the compressed fiber mat comprises a structural substrate.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02118. The method of Claim 92 further comprising the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel.

119. The method of Claim 92 wherein the composite structure comprises a cover.

120. The method of Claim 92 further comprising the step of producing a composite structure comprising the fiber panel and a cover.

121. The method of Claim 92 further comprising the step of producing a composite structure comprising the compressed fiber panel and a cover.

122. The method of Claim 92 wherein the composite structure comprises the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel.

123. The method of Claim 92 wherein the composite structure comprises the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the composite structure.

124. The method of Claim 92 wherein the composite structure comprises a generally smooth exterior surface.

125. The method of Claim 92 wherein the component comprises the composite structure with the resin feature in the fiber panel.

126. The method of Claim 92 wherein the composite structure comprises the compressed fiber panel providing a structural substrate and the resin feature in the compressed fiber panel configured to direct formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the component.

127. The method of Claim 92 wherein the seam comprises a recess configured to facilitate initiation of a tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag.

128. The method of Claim 92 wherein the seam comprises a recess adjacent to the resin feature configured to facilitate initiation of a distinct tear line for formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag.

129. The method of Claim 92 wherein the seam comprises a tear line for formation of an airbag door in the composite structure for deployment of the airbag.

130. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature is formed along the seam.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02131. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature is formed at the seam.

132. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature is formed on the seam.

133. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature is formed adjacent the seam.

134. The method of Claim 92 wherein the seam comprises a U-shaped seam.

135. The method of Claim 92 wherein the seam comprises an H-shaped seam.

136. The method of Claim 92 wherein the seam comprises a linear-shaped line.

137. The method of Claim 92 wherein the seam comprises a wavy-shaped line.

138. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin material comprises at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate.

139. The method of Claim 92 wherein the resin feature comprises at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate.

140. The method of Claim 92 wherein the fiber panel comprises at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate.

141. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising:a composite structure comprising a fiber panel comprising a structural substrate; wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and weakened area;wherein the weakened area comprises a recess;wherein the fiber panel comprises a resin feature at the weakened area;wherein the resin feature of the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

142. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded resin feature.

143. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded resin feature formed in the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02144. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a void in the fiber panel.

145. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a hole in the fiber panel.

146. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is injection molded in the fiber panel.

147. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is injection molded in a hole in the fiber panel.

148. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a molded resin plug formed in a void in the fiber panel.

149. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure.

150. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure comprising the resin feature.

151. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure on the resin feature.

152. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure under the resin feature.

153. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the resin feature.

154. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess.

155. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a resin structure adjacent to the recess for formation of the opening.

156. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening.

157. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a profile configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the opening.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02158. The component of Claim 141 wherein the airbag door is formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

159. The component of Claim 141 wherein the weakened area comprises a recess comprising the resin feature.

160. The component of Claim 141 wherein the weakened area comprises a seam.

161. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess of weakened area comprises a seam.

162. The component of Claim 141 wherein the seam is configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening.

163. The component of Claim 141 wherein the seam is configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening.

164. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess is configured to form the airbag door.

165. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a linear seam.

166. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a wavy seam.

167. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed by injecting resin material into a mold tool to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel.

168. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin material comprises fill in a set of holes in the fiber panel.

169. The component of Claim 141 wherein fill in the set of holes in the fiber panel comprises fill in a hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel to provide the resin feature.

170. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a resin-filled feature configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

171. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel is formed from a fiber mat comprising the set of holes.

172. The component of Claim 141 wherein fill in the hole of the set of holes in the fiber panel comprises the resin feature formed from the resin material.

173. The component of Claim 141 wherein fill comprises resin material.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02174. The component of Claim 141 wherein fill comprises resin.

175. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin material comprises a resin.

176. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a resin feature.

177. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a plug.

178. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a flat.

179. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a body and a flange.

180. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is attached to the fiber panel at the flange.

181. The component of Claim 141 wherein the flange is molded into the fiber panel.

182. The component of Claim 141 wherein the flange is molded onto the fiber panel.

183. The component of Claim 141 wherein the flange is formed into an indentation in the fiber panel.

184. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin structure.

185. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin structure comprises a rib.

186. The component of Claim 141 wherein the weakened area comprises a generally H-shaped area.

187. The component of Claim 141 wherein the weakened area comprises a generally U-shaped area.

188. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein the recess is formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02189. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein the resin feature is formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel.

190. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess is configured to form a seam for an opening through the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening.

191. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a multi-side form.

192. The component of Claim 141 wherein the multi-side form comprises a coinshaped form.

193. The component of Claim 141 wherein the multi-side form comprises a generally trapezoidal form.

194. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a variable depth.

195. The component of Claim 141 wherein the weakened area comprises a transition area.

196. The component of Claim 141 wherein the transition area comprises the resin feature.

197. The component of Claim 141 wherein the transition area comprises a flange of the resin feature.

198. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a generally curved form.

199. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed adjacent to the recess; wherein the resin feature comprises a ridge segment.

200. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a thickness less than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel.

201. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a thickness greater than a nominal thickness of the base area of the fiber panel.

202. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel has a nominal average thickness in the base area and the reduced thickness at the weakened area.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02203. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess for the weakened area comprises a center recess and a set of lateral recesses; wherein the weakened area comprises the set of lateral recesses connected by the center recess; wherein the center recess comprises a connector.

204. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of segments.

205. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of sections.

206. The component of Claim 141 wherein the weakened area comprises a set of segments.

207. The component of Claim 141 wherein the set of segments comprises a set of lateral segments connected by a center line.

208. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a formed recess.

209. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises an indentation.

210. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin structure formed adjacent to the indentation.

211. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a groove; wherein the groove is formed in the fiber panel.

212. The component of Claim 141 wherein the groove comprises a wavy line.

213. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin structure comprises a wavy line.

214. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin structure comprises a generally straight line.

215. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin structure comprises a generally H-shaped line.

216. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin structure comprises a generally U-shaped line.

217. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a generally flat bottom.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02218. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a tapered edge.

219. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a generally curved form and a generally flat form.

220. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a rounded form comprising a generally flat bottom.

221. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a multisegmented form.

222. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a transition section.

223. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed at the weakened area in the fiber panel.

224. The component of Claim 141 further comprising a structure formed on the fiber panel; wherein the structure comprises an injection-molded resin; wherein the structure comprises a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; wherein the set of ribs is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door.

225. The component of Claim 141 wherein fiber of the fiber panel is at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure.

226. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compression-formed fiber panel.

227. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises at least one of (a) a tear line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; (b) a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag.

228. The component of Claim 141 further comprising a cover on the fiber panel; wherein the weakened area is not generally visible at the cover.

229. The component of Claim 141 comprising at least one of (a) a trim panel; (b) an instrument panel; (c) a door panel; (d) a pillar.

230. The component of Claim 141 further comprising a structure formed onto the fiber panel; wherein the structure comprises an injection -molded resin.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02231. The component of Claim 141 wherein the structure comprises a set of ribs at the weakened area of the fiber panel; wherein the set of ribs is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door.

232. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers.

233. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compressed fiber panel; wherein the resin feature is formed in an indentation in the compressed fiber panel.

234. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compressed fiber panel; wherein the resin feature is formed in a void in the compressed fiber panel.

235. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compressed fiber panel; wherein the resin feature is formed partially in a void in the compressed fiber panel.

236. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compressed fiber panel; wherein the resin feature is formed in a hole in the compressed fiber panel.

237. The component of Claim 141 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compressed fiber panel; wherein the resin feature is formed in a hole for a holding pin of a fiber mat compressed into the compressed fiber panel.

238. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess is formed in a mold by: (a) compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

239. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a mold by: (a) compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the void for the resin feature in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

240. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a path comprising at least one of (a) a continuous wave portion comprising a periodic function; (b) a sinusoidal shape.

241. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin feature formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; wherein the resin feature is configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02242. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises the resin feature.

243. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin rib formed on the fiber panel adjacent the recess; wherein the resin rib is configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

244. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin rib extends from the recess below the rear side of the fiber panel.

245. The component of Claim 141 wherein the recess comprises a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; wherein the connector comprises a generally sinusoidal shape; wherein the fiber panel comprises a rib adjacent the connector of the recess at the rear side of the panel; wherein the rib comprises a generally sinusoidal shape.

246. The component of Claim 141 wherein the rib comprises a first rib on a side of the connector and a second rib on an opposite side of the connector.

247. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a cavity in the fiber panel.

248. The component of Claim 141 wherein the profile of the cavity comprises at least one of (a) a bevel; (b) a fillet; (c) a chamfer.

249. The component of Claim 141 wherein the profile of the resin feature comprises at least one of (a) a bevel; (b) a fillet; (c) a chamfer.

250. The component of Claim 141 wherein the front side of the fiber panel comprises a substantially planar surface opposite the recess.

251. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in an indentation in the rear side of the fiber panel; wherein the resin feature comprises a thickness corresponding to the indentation in the fiber panel.

252. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a cavity in the rear side of the fiber panel; wherein the resin feature comprises a thickness corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel.

253. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a cavity in the fiber panel; wherein the resin feature comprises a thickness partially corresponding to the cavity in the fiber panel.FIP 24066-PCT-US-02254. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a hole in the fiber panel; wherein the resin feature comprises a thickness corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel.

255. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature is formed in a hole in the fiber panel; wherein the resin feature comprises a thickness partially corresponding to the hole in the fiber panel.

256. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of facets; wherein the set of facets comprises a surface generally parallel to the front side of the panel.

257. The component of Claim 141 wherein the resin feature comprises at least one angled surface.

258. The component of Claim 141 wherein the composite structure comprises a panel assembly.

Images