Component for vehicle interior

Abstract

A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag is disclosed. The component comprises a composite structure comprising a panel comprising a structural substrate; the panel may comprise a fiber panel; a weakened area of the panel / fiber panel of the composite structure is configured to facilitate formation an opening for deployment of the airbag from the component through the composite structure and a cover. The weakened area of the panel / fiber panel comprises a recess / set of recesses such as a slot / groove arrangement to provide a seam / tear line to form the opening for deployment of the airbag through the composite structure; the weakened area of the panel / fiber panel may comprise a formed structure / set of structures such as a rib / reinforcement arrangement formed on the fiber panel. The fiber panel may be compression-formed with recess arrangement and / or formed / resin structure arrangement into the into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

Description

FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02PATENT APPLICATION COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in full U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 743,622 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed January 9, 2025.

[0002] The present application is related to and incorporates by reference in full the following patent documents: (a) U.S. Patent No. 12,427,701 titled “VEHICLE TRIM COMPONENT” issued September 30, 2025; (b) U.S. Patent No. 10,926,732 titled “VEHICLE INTERIOR COMPONENT” issued February 23, 2021; (c) U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 171,163 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20250229742A1) titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed April 4, 2025.FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior.

[0004] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag into the vehicle interior.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02BACKGROUND

[0005] It is known to provide a 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 configured to form an opening for deployment of an airbag.

[0007] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure comprising a recess arrangement configured to form an opening for deployment of an airbag.

[0008] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure comprising a recess arrangement configured to provide a seam / tear line to form an opening for deployment of an airbag.

[0009] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure comprising a recess arrangement and / or a formed structure arrangement configured to provide a seam / tear line to form an opening for deployment of an airbag.

[0010] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior comprising a composite structure comprising a recess arrangement and / or a formed resin structure arrangement configured to provide a seam / tear line to form an opening for deployment of an airbag.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02SUMMARY

[0011] 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 a weakened area for the composite structure; the weakened area of the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a feature; the feature in the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a recess in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the recess in the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise a set of recesses in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the weakened area may comprise a scam; the recess of the weakened area may comprise a seam; the set of recesses of the weakened area may comprise a seam; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the seam may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening; the seam may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door formed in the composite structure to provide the opening for the airbag; the fiber panel may be compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the fiber panel may be compression formed from a fiber mat into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the weakened area may comprise a generally Il-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; a resin feature may be formed at the inner surface of the fiber panel; the recess may be configured to form a seam providing the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening for the composite structure; the resin feature may be configured to form the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening for the composite structure; the recess and the resin feature may be configured to form the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening for the composite structure; the recess may be formed into the fiber panel before the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the recess may be formed into the fiber panel as the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the recess comprising a set of recesses may be formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the recess comprising a set of recesses may comprise a seam; the seam may be formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for theFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02composite structure; the recess may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam in the fiber panel; a resin structure may be formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the seam; the seam may be configured to provide the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the fiber panel may comprise a fiber mat compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the recess comprising a set of recesses for the seam may be formed in the fiber mat; the seam formed in the fiber mat may be configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the composite structure may comprise a fiber mat compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate; the recess comprising a set of recesses for the seam may be formed in the fiber mat; the seam formed in the fiber mat may be configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area of the fiber panel for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the set of recesses for the scam formed in the fiber mat may comprise a set of holes and / or a set of slots and / or a set of slits; the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat may comprise a set of slots; the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat may comprise a set of slots configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area of the fiber panel for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat may comprise a set of slots; the fiber mat may be compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the set of slots in the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate may be configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the set of recesses for the seam may be formed in the fiber mat; the fiber mat may be compression formed into the fiber panel for the composite structure; the set of recesses in the fiber panel may be configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat may comprise a set of slots; the fiber mat may be compression formed into the fiber panel for the composite structure; the set of slots in the fiber panel may be configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite stmeture; the set of recesses for the seam may be formed in the fiber mat; the fiber mat may be compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the set of recesses in the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate may be configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; theFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02recess may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam formed into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam may be configured to form a tear line at the weakened area to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the recess may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam cut into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the recess may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam die-cut into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam may be formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam may be cut into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the recess comprising the set of recesses formed into the fiber mat may comprise a seam formed by die-cutting into the fiber panel before the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the scam may be formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam may be formed into the fiber mat as a tear line before compression forming of the fiber mat into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam of the fiber panel may comprise a tear line in the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam may be formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam may be formed into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam may be formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; the seam formed in the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening in the composite structure; the recess may comprise a formed recess; the recess may comprise an indentation; 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 recess may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening; the recess may comprise a groove; the groove may be formed in the fiber panel; the groove may comprise a wavy line; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the recess may comprise a line; the fiber panel may comprise a structure adjacent the recess; the recess may comprise a line; the fiber panel may comprise a resin structure adjacent the recess; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the fiber panel may comprise a structure adjacent the recess; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the fiber panelFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02may comprise a resin structure adjacent the recess; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the fiber panel may comprise a rib adjacent the recess; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the fiber panel may comprise a resin rib adjacent the recess; the recess may comprise a seam; the fiber panel may comprise a resin structure adjacent the seam; the recess may comprise a seam comprising a linear shape; the fiber panel may comprise a resin slruclure adjacent the seam; the resin structure may comprise a rib comprising a linear shape; the recess may comprise a seam comprising a wavy shape; the fiber panel may comprise a resin structure adjacent the seam; the resin structure may comprise a rib comprising a wavy shape; the fiber panel may be formed from a panel comprising a fiber mat comprising a front side and a rear side; the recess may be formed in a mold by penetrating material of the panel to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the recess may be formed in a mold by penetrating material of the panel to form a set of recesses in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the recess may be formed in a mold by penetrating material of the panel to form a set of recesses comprising a scam in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the seam may be configured to form a tear line at the weakened area to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure; the composite structure with the recess may be formed by compressing the panel and penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to foim the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the composite structure with the recess may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, and forming a resin feature on the panel; the composite structure with the recess may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, forming a resin feature on the panel, and providing a cover for the composite structure; the composite structure comprising 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 to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the composite structure comprising 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, 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 to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, and forming a resin feature on the panel; the recess may be formedFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02in 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 to provide the weakened area and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; 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, 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 for the weakened area for the composite structure, and forming a resin feature on the panel at the weakened area for the composite structure; the composite structure comprising the recess may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side for the weakened area for the composite structure, forming a resin feature on the panel at the weakened area for the composite structure; the composite structure with the recess may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, and forming a resin feature on the panel 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 composite structure with the recess may be formed by compressing a fiber mat into a compression-formed fiber panel and penetrating material of the fiber mat at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side of the fiber panel and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side of the fiber panel and forming a resin feature on the fiber panel 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 composite structure with the recess may be formed by compressing a fiber mat into a compression-formed fiber panel and penetrating material of the fiber mat at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side of the fiber panel and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side of the fiber panel and forming a resin feature on the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin feature formed on the fiber panel; the composite structure with the recess may comprise a resin feature formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess; the resin feature may comprise a structure; the resin feature may comprise a rib; the resin feature may comprise a reinforcement; the resin feature may comprise a set of segments; the resin feature may comprise a set of ribs; the resin feature may comprise a set of reinforcements; the composite structure may comprise a structure formed adjacent to the recess; the recess may comprise a groove; the groove may be formed in the fiber panel; the groove may comprise a wavy line; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the composite structure may comprise resinFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02material comprising the resin feature and a recess; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature and the recess adjacent to the resin feature; the composite structure may comprise resin material comprising the resin feature adjacent to the recess to facilitate formation of the airbag door the opening in the composite structure; the airbag door may be formed at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; 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 and / or on the fiber panel; 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 resin feature may be molded into and / or onto the fiber panel; the composite structure may comprise a resin structure and the recess; the resin structure may comprise a rib; 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 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; 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, a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag, a seam in the composite structure, a seam adjacent to a resin feature formed on the fiber panel, and / or a recess under a cover on the composite structure, etc.; 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, and / or a pillar, etc.; the composite structure may comprise a panel assembly.

[0012] 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 structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel comprising a base area and weakened area; the fiber panel may comprise a compression formed fiber panel; the compression formed fiber panel may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat; the weakened area in the fiber panel may comprise a pre- weakened area formed in the fiber mat; the weakened area in the fiber panel may comprise a featureFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag in the composite structure; the feature at the weakened area in the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of an airbag door to provide the opening for deployment of the airbag; the opening may be configured to be formed at a tear line facilitated by a seam in the composite structure comprising the feature at the weakened area in the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a recess; the feature may comprise a recess and a resin structure formed adjacent to the recess; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the pre-weakened area may comprise a tear line configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area; the preweakened area may comprise a score line configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area; the pre- weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area; the pre- weakened area may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area to provide a tear line; the pre-weakened area may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre- weakened area to provide a score line; the prc-wcakcncd area may comprise bending of fibers at the pre-weakened area: the pre- weakened area may comprise cutting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise shortening of fibers at the pre- weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise stretching of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise weakening of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise compressing of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise flexing of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise splitting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise partially splitting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise separating of fibers at the preweakened area: the fibers may comprise a fiber matrix; the pre-weakened area may comprise alteration of the fiber matrix at the pre-weakened area; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise pre-weakening of the fiber matrix; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise weakening of the fiber matrix; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise forming a hole pattern in the fiber matrix; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise forming a hole pattern in the fiber mat; the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat may be formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel; the weakened area of the fiber panel may be generally not visible at an external surface of the composite structure; the composite structure may comprise a cover; the weakened area of the fiber panel may be generally not visible at the cover of the composite structure; the pre-weakened area may comprise the feature formed in the fiber mat; the feature may comprise a hole; the feature may comprise a set of holes; the feature mayFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02comprise a score line; the feature may comprise a tear line; the feature may comprise a seam; the feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature may comprise a recess; the feature may comprise a recess comprising a multi-sided profile; the feature may be formed by a diecut operation; the feature may be formed by a tool; the feature may be formed by a blade; the feature may be formed by a needle; the feature may be formed by a punch; the feature may be formed when the fiber mat is cut to a shape; the feature may be formed when the fiber mat is compression-formed to a fiber panel; the feature may comprise alteration of fibers and / or bending of fibers and / or cutting of fibers and / or shortening of fibers and / or stretching of fibers and / or weakening of fibers and / or compressing of fibers and / or flexing of fibers and / or splitting of fibers and / or partially splitting of fibers; the feature may comprise alteration of fibers for weakening of a fiber matrix; the pre-weakened area may comprise a set of features formed in the fiber mat; the set of features may comprise a pattern; the set of features may comprise a line; the set of features may comprise a score line; the set of features may comprise a tear line; the fiber panel may comprise fibers; the fiber panel may comprise natural fibers; the fiber panel may comprise fibers and resin; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of between about 20 to about 75 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of less than about 200 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of more than about 20 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of less than about 75 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of more than about 5 mm; the composite structure may comprise a resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a resin structure; the resin feature may comprise a border; the resin feature may comprise a reinforcement; the composite structure may comprise a stitch; the composite structure may comprise a stitch provided in a stitch pattern; the stitch may comprise a reinforcement; the reinforcement may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag; the reinforcement may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line to provide an airbag door; the reinforcement may be configured to provide a hinge area for an airbag door.

[0013] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior may comprise forming a feature in a fiber mat and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area: the feature may comprise a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may be configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat; the feature mayFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat; the step of forming the feature may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature may comprise a slit; the feature may comprise a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit; formation of the feature may comprise alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting; the feature may comprise a set of lines; the feature may comprise multiple generally parallel lines; the component may comprise a composite structure comprising the fiber panel; the method may further comprise the step of shaping the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation before compression-forming the fiber mat into the fiber panel; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a die-cutting operation; the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat may comprise an operation comprising at least one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, water cutting, a water cut operation, needle-punching and / or mechanical operation, etc.; the fiber mat may comprise fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene and / or nylon, etc.

[0014] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an airbag door may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a pre-weakened area; the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the component may further comprise a cover on the fiber panel; 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.

[0015] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag may comprise a panel comprising fibers; the panel may comprise a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the panel may comprise a recessFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag and direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the front side of the panel may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess; the panel comprising fibers may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the recess may be formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel or an indentation in the rear side of the 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 recess may comprise a path comprising at least one of a continuous wave portion comprising a periodic function and / or a sinusoidal shape; the panel further may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and / or polycarbonate; the panel may comprise a resin rib formed on the panel adjacent the recess at the rear side of the panel; the resin rib may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the resin rib may extend from the recess below the rear side of the panel; the recess may comprise a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; the connector may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the 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.

[0016] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag and comprise a panel comprising fibers; the panel may comprise a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the panel may comprise a recess formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag and direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the front side of the panel may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess; the recess may be formed as a hole arrangement within the panel; the recess may be formed as an indentation in the rear side of the panel; the recess may comprise a depth within the panel; the recess may comprise a score line.

[0017] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior formed in a mold and configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag from an airbag module may comprise a panel comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the profile of the recess may be configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel duringFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the recess may be formed by the process of compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold and penetrating material of the fiber panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form the recess in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the process may further comprise the step of filling a depression of the mold with material of the fiber panel to form a protrusion at the rear side; the panel further may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and / or polycarbonate; the recess may comprise a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel.

[0018] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior may comprise forming a feature in a fiber mat and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the feature may comprise a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise the prc-wcakcncd area of the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may be configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat; the step of forming the feature may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature may comprise a slit; the feature may comprise a width of a slit and / or a length of a slil and / or a spacing of a slit; formation of the feature may comprise alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting; the feature may comprise a set of lines; the feature may comprise multiple generally parallel lines; the component may comprise a composite structure comprising the fiber panel; the method may further comprise the step of shaping the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation before compression-forming the fiber mat into the fiber panel; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a die-cutting operation; the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat may comprise an operation comprising at least one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, water cutting, a water cut operation,FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02needle-punching and / or mechanical operation, etc.; the fiber mat may comprise fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene and / or nylon, etc.

[0019] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior may comprise providing a mold comprising a first surface and a second surface comprising a protrusion and a depression, providing a fiber panel comprising a first side and a second side onto the first surface of a mold, compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel between the first surface and the second surface of the mold, penetrating material of the fiber panel at the first side of the panel with the protrusion of the second surface of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form a notch in the first side of the fiber panel and maintain a continuous surface at the second side of the fiber panel, and filling the depression of the second surface of the mold with material of the fiber panel to form a protrusion at the first side of the fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a notch; the notch may comprise a recess; the recess may be configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

[0020] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and a weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a pre-weakened area; the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of an airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the weakened area may comprise a line; the weakened area may comprise a score line; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the weakened area may comprise a set of holes; the weakened area may comprise a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement; the weakened area may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise an aperture; the recess may comprise a set of apertures; the recess may comprise a set of holes; the recess may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise a recess comprising a profile configured to provide a seam and / or tear line for formation of the opening in the structural substrate; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth, etc.; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement,FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02etc.; the fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the fiber panel substrate may comprise a compressed fiber panel formed by compression of a fiber mat; 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 comprising the profile 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 airbag door; the profile may comprise a multi-side form; the profile may comprise a variable depth; the profile may comprise a transition area; the transition area may comprise a transition into the profile; the transition area may comprise a transition into a generally trapezoidal section of the profile; the transition area may comprise a generally curved form; the transition area may comprise a feature formed adjacent to the recess; the feature may comprise a ridge segment; 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 recess may comprise a hole; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the bottom may comprise a generally flat bottom; the set of walls may comprise a set of flat tapered walls adjacent to the bottom; 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; 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 component may further comprise a panel comprising the fiber panel; the panel may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and / or polycarbonate; 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, a composite structure comprising the structural substrate and / or a composite structure comprising the structural substrate and a cover.

[0021] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an airbag door may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel: the fiber panel may comprise a base area and a weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a pre-weakened area; the weakened area may be configured toFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the pre-weakened area may be formed in a fiber mat: the fiber mat may be compression-formed into the fiber panel; the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat may be formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel.

[0022] 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 structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel comprising a base area and weakened area; the fiber panel may comprise a compression formed fiber panel; the compression formed fiber panel may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat; the weakened area in the fiber panel may comprise a pre- weakened area; the weakened area in the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02FIGURES

[0023] FIGURE 1A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURE IB is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle showing a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIGURE 2A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIGURES 2B and 2C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURES 3A and 3B are schematic side elevation section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURES 4A through 4C arc schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURES 5A through 5C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIGURES 6A through 6C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURES 7 A through 7C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIGURES 8A through 8C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] FIGURES 9A through 9C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0034] FIGURE 10 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] FIGURE 10A is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] FIGURE 10B is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] FIGURES 10C and 10D are schematic side elevation views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02

[0038] FIGURE 11 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] FIGURE 11 A is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIGURE 1 IB is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] FIGURES 11C and 1 ID are schematic side elevation views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] FIGURE 12 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] FIGURE 12A is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] FIGURE 12B is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] FIGURES 12C and 12D are schematic side elevation views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] FIGURE 13A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] FIGURE 13B is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] FIGURES 14A and 14B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] FIGURES 15A and 15B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0050] FIGURE 15C is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] FIGURES 16A and 16B are schematic views of a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] FIGURE 16C is a schematic perspective view of a product from a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] FIGURE 17A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] FIGURES 17B and 17C are schematic perspective partial detail views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02

[0055] FIGURE 17D is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] FIGURE 18 is a schematic top plan partial detail view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0057] FIGURES 19A and 19B are schematic top plan partial detail views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0058] FIGURES 19C through 19F are schematic top plan partial detail views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] FIGURES 20 through 20E are schematic perspective top plan partial views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] FIGURES 21 through 21B are schematic perspective top plan partial views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] FIGURES 22A and 22B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] FIGURES 23A and 23B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] FIGURE 24A is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0064] FIGURE 24B is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] FIGURES 25A through 25C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0066] FIGURES 26A through 26E are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] FIGURE 27 is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0068] FIGURES 28A and 28B are schematic side elevation views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0069] FIGURE 29 is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

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

[0071] FIGURE 30B is a schematic perspective partial detail view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02

[0072] FIGURE 31 A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] FIGURE 3 IB is a schematic perspective partial detail view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0074] FIGURES 32A through 32D are schematic perspective partial detail views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0075] FIGURE 33A is a schematic top plan view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

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

[0077] FIGURES 33C and 33D are schematic perspective partial detail views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] FIGURE 34A and 34B are schematic perspective partial detail views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] FIGURES 34C through 34F are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0080] FIGURES 35A through 35D are schematic side elevation views of a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0081] FIGURE 35E is a schematic side elevation view of a product from a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0082] FIGURES 36A through 36D are schematic side elevation views of a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] FIGURE 36E is a schematic side elevation view of a product from a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0084] FIGURES 37A through 37E are schematic side elevation views of a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0085] FIGURE 37F is a schematic side elevation view of a product from a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0086] FIGURE 38A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0087] FIGURE 38B is a schematic side elevation view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0088] FIGURE 39A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02

[0089] FIGURES 39B and 39C are a schematic side elevation views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0090] FIGURE 40 is a schematic top plan view of component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0091] FIGURES 40A through 401 are schematic section views of a substrate of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0092] FIGURES 41 A through 41C are schematic flow diagrams of a process to form a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02DESCRIPTION

[0093] Referring to FIGURES 1A-1B and 2A-2C, a vehicle V is shown with a vehicle interior VI comprising components C such as an instrament panel IP, door panel DP, console shown as floor console FC, steering wheel SW, etc. As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C and 3A-3B, the component C shown as instrument panel IP may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a panel PL shown as fiber panel providing a structural substrate and a cover T providing an external surface. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C, 7A-7C, 3OA-3OB and 31A-31B, the component C comprising composite structure CS may be assembled with an airbag module / housing ABH configured for deployment of an airbag AB through the composite structure CS of component C. See also FIGURES 22A-22B and 23A-23B.

[0094] As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C and 7A-7C, the structural substrate formed by fiber panel FP of composite structure CS of component C may comprise a weakened area providing a seam / tear line TR with a feature such a recess / set of recesses RS (e.g. formed / cut into the structural substrate) and / or a feature such as a stracture / reinforcement SR / RB (e.g. a resin-formed / molded structure on the structural substrate); weakened area of composite structure CS providing seam / tear line TR (with recess RS, structure SR, etc.) is configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB (from an airbag module / housing, etc.) through an opening formed at an airbag door ABD; as indicated schematically in FIGURE IB and 2 A, the weakened area / seam TR of the composite structure CS configured for formation of the opening / airbag door ABD deployed from the housing ABH may be concealed visually at and behind the cover T of the component C. See also FIGURES 22A-22B, 23A-23B, 30A-30B and 31A-31B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C, 7A-7C, 3OA-3OB and 31A-31B, the weakened area of composite structure CS comprises seam / tear line TR with a recess / set of recesses RS configured to provide an initiation point SP and to direct formation of the airbag door ABD to provide the opening for deployment of the airbag AB through the composite structure CS of component C. See also FIGURES 22A-22B and 23A-23B.

[0095] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2B-2C, 3A-3B, 8A-8C, 9A-9C, 10, 10A, 11, 11 A, 12 and 12A, the opening for airbag AB to deploy through airbag door ABD of the composite structure CS of component C is formed at the seam / tear line SR facilitated by recess RS and / or stracture / rib SR / RB in the weakened area of the fiber panel FP of compositeFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02structure CS; deployment of airbag AB initiates the opening and formation of airbag door ABD with hinge / hinge area HG at the weakened area provided by at recess RS (e.g. starting at an initiation point SP) and / or resin feature / structure SR along seam / tear line SR into and through the composite structure CS and cover T of the component. See also FIGURES 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C, 7A-7C, 10B-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12D, 22A-22B and 23A-23B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 8C, 9C, 12 and 12A-12D, the composite structure CS may comprise a stitch pattern SH as a reinforcement for the hinge area HG of airbag door ABD formed at the weakened area adjacent to recess RS and seam / tear line TR. See also FIGURES 20C-20D, 21 and 21 A.

[0096] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C, 7A-7C, 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 22A-22B and 23A-23B, component C may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area at seam / tear line TR for the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR of the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR of the fiber panel FP may comprise a recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the recess RS in the weakened area TR of the fiber panel FP may comprise a set of recesses in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the weakened area TR may comprise a seam TR; the recess RS of the weakened area TR may comprise a seam TR; the set of recesses RS of the weakened area TR may comprise a seam TR; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line TR for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag AB through an airbag door ABD providing the opening; the seam TR may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag AB through an airbag door ABD formed in the composite structure CS to provide the opening for the airbag;

[0097] As shown schematically in FIGURES 19A-19F, 24A-24B, 25A-25E, 26A-26E, 27, 28A-28B, 29, 32A-32D, 33A-33D, 34A-34F, 39A-39C, 40 and 40A-40I, the weakened area at seam / tear line TR to provide the opening in composite structure CS for component C for deployment of the airbag may comprise an arrangement of the recess / set of recesses RS on structural substrate provided by the panel PL shown as fiber panel FP; the recess / set of recesses RS may be provided in any of a variety of forms, shapes, patterns, etc. to provide the seam / tear line TR; for example, pattem / form / shape / depth for recess arrangement may comprise straight lines, solid line, intermittent line, curved lines, wavy lines, curved forms,FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02wavy forms, regular forms, irregular forms, multiple lines, oval holes, circular holes, slits, slots, etc. (and combinations of forms / shapes and patterns, etc.). See FIGURES 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 18, 35A-35E, 36A-36E, 37A-37F and 38A-38B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 18, 19A-19F, 39A-39C, 40 and 40A-40I, the arrangement of the recesses RS in the structural substrate provided by panel PL / fiber panel FP may be provided in a variety of forms and patterns facilitated by the materials of the panel PL such as fiber panel material / matrix (see FIGURES 19A-19F, 39A-39C, 40, 40A-40G) which may provide an irregular shape upon formation (e.g. irregular form within the fiber matrix) or other panel material (see FIGURES 40H and 401) which may facilitate other forms, etc. (e.g. rigid / regular form); as indicated schematically, the form / shape of recesses RS in the panel / fiber panel FP / PL of composite structure CS may be provided by a tool MX with a projection PR configured to cut and / or punch / form, etc. into the matrix / material. See also FIGURES 35A-35D and 36A-36D.

[0098] As shown schematically in FIGURES 11, 11A-11D, 17A-17D, 27, 28A-28B, 29 and 38B, the weakened area at seam / tear line TR to provide the opening in composite structure CS for component C for deployment of the airbag may comprise an arrangement the formed / resin structure SR / RB on structural substrate provided by the panel PL shown as fiber panel FP; the structure SR may be provided in any of a variety of forms, shapes, patterns, etc.; for example, pattern / form / shape / size for structure arrangement may comprise regular forms, irregular forms, linear form, curved form, wavy form, block shapes, sloped shapes, honeycomb structure, flat walls, solid ribs, reinforcement ribs, etc. (and combinations of forms / shapes and patterns, etc.). See also FIGURES 37A-37F. As shown schematically in FIGURES 22A-22B and 23A-23B, the formed / resin structure SR may comprise the housing / structure ABH for the airbag / airbag module.

[0099] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B, 11, 11A-11D, 17A-17D, 22A-22B, 23A-23B, 27, 28A-28B, 29, 37A-37F, and 38B, the weakened area at the seam / tear line TR of the composite structure CS may comprise an arrangement in combination of the recess / set of recesses RS and the formed / resin structure SR / RB on structural substrate provided by the panel PL shown as fiber panel FP; the resin / formed structure SR may comprise a set of resin / formed stmctures SR / RB. See also FIGURES 2A-2C.

[0100] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 10, 10A-10D, 11, 11A-11D, 12, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16C, 35A-35E, 36A-36E, 37A-37F and 41A-41C, the composite structure CS of the component C may be formed from a fiber mat FPu (e.g. heated in tool / oven MXv) and that is compression formed (e.g. compressed in thickness tFP to aFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02compressed fiber panel FPc in tool / mold MX) into the structural substrate comprising fiber panel FP; the recess RS may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel FP (with tool MX providing projection PR to form the recess); a resin feature SR / RB may be formed at the inner surface of the fiber panel FP (with tool MX to inject resin R to form / mold the structure).

[0101] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16C, 18, 19A-19F, 27, 28A-28B, 29, 35A-35E, 36A-36E, 37A-37F and 41 A-41C, the recess RS may be formed (e.g. cut, die-cut, pressed, stamped, punched, etc.) into the fiber matrix / composition of the fiber panel FP providing the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the resin structure SR may be formed (e.g. molded, injection molded, deposited, etc.) on / into the fiber matrix / composition of the fiber panel FP providing the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess arrangement and / or formed structure arrangement may be formed on fiber panel FP (as a fiber mat) as or before the fiber panel is compression formed (from a fiber mat) into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may be formed into the fiber panel FP before the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may be formed into the fiber panel FP as the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS comprising a set of recesses may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS comprising a set of recesses may comprise a seam TR; the seam TR may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam TR in the fiber panel FP; a resin structure SR may be formed on the fiber panel FP adjacent to the seam TR; the resin / formed structure SR may comprise a set of resin / formed structures. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11, 11A-1 ID and 17A-17D, resin of the resin structure SR may form on the fiber / resin; as indicated schematically in FIGURES 28A-28B and 29, resin of the resin structure SR infuses into a fiber / resin composition of the fiber panel FP. See also FIGURES 18, 19A-19F, 22A-22B, 23A-23B and 27.

[0102] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16C, 19A-19F, 20, 20A-20E, 21, 21A-21B, 35A-35E, 36A-36E, 37A-37F, 40, 40A-40I and 41 A-41C, composite structure CS with cover / wrap T for component C may be formed by cut / shaping of fiber panel FP / PL from fiber mat FPu into a shape with weakened areas for deployment of the airbag provided by recess arrangement RS and / or resin structureFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02arrangement SR on fiber panel I P to provided the seam / tear line TR to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an opening formed in the composite structure CS: the recess arrangement RS for the seam / tear line TR may be provided in any of a variety of forms / pattems (see FIGURES 40 and 40A-40I). See also FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C and 7A-7C.

[0103] As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B, 4A-4C, 6A-6C, 8A-8C. 10, 10A. 11, HA, 12, 12A, 14A, 15A, 20, 20A-20C, 22A-22B, 23A-23B, 30A, 31A and 39A, the weakened area at seam / tear line TR of composite structure CS of component C for deployment of airbag AB may comprise a generally H-shaped area established by the arrangement of the recess / set of recesses RS and / or of the formed structure / set of formed structures SR / RB on structural substrate provided by the panel PL shown as fiber panel FP. As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A, 2C, 5A-5C, 7A-7C, 9A-9C, 14B, 15B, 20D, 21, 21 A-21C, 33A-33B and 38A, the weakened area SP / TR at seam / tear line TR of composite structure CS of component C for deployment of airbag AB may comprise a generally U-shaped are established by the arrangement of the recess / set of recesses RS and / or of the formed / resin structure SR / RB on structural substrate provided by the panel PL shown as fiber panel FP. As indicated schematically, the weakened area at the seam / tear line of the composite structure of the component for deployment of the airbag may be provided in any of a variety of forms / shapes established by the arrangement of the recess / set of recesses and / or of the formed structure / set of formed structures on structural substrate provided by the panel / fiber panel. See also FIGURES 2A-2C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C and 7A-7C.

[0104] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6A-6C, 7A-7C, 10, 10A, 11, 11 A, 12, 12A, 30A-30B and 31A-31B, the fiber panel may comprise a compression-formed fiber panel FP; the recess RS may comprise at least one of a tear line TR configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag AB, a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag, a seam TR in the composite structure CS, a seam TR adjacent to a resin feature SR / RB formed on the fiber panel FP, and / or a recess RS under a cover T on the composite structure CS, etc.; the component C may comprise a cover T on the fiber panel FP; the weakened area TR may be not generally visible at the cover T; the component C may comprise at least one of a trim panel, an instmment panel IP, a door panel DP, and / or a pillar, etc.; the composite structure CS may comprise a panel assembly PL.

[0105] As shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag may comprise a composite structureFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02comprising a panel comprising a structural substrate; the panel may comprise a fiber panel; a weakened area of the panel / fiber panel of the composite structure is configured to facilitate formation an opening for deployment of the airbag from the component through the composite structure and a cover. The weakened area of the panel / fiber panel comprises a recess / set of recesses such as a slot / groove arrangement to provide a seam / tear line to form the opening for deployment of the airbag through the composite structure; the weakened area of the panel / fiber panel may comprise a formed structure / set of structures such as a rib / reinforcement arrangement formed on the fiber panel. The fiber panel may be compression-formed with recess arrangement and / or formed / resin structure arrangement into the into the structural substrate for the composite structure.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02Exemplary Embodiments - A

[0106] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the recess RS in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a set of recesses in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a seam TR; the recess RS of the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a scam TR; the set of recesses RS of the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a seam TR; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line TR for fomration of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag AB through an airbag door ABD providing the opening; the seam TR may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag AB through an airbag door ABD formed in the composite structure CS to provide the opening for the airbag.

[0107] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS: the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel FP may be compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the fiber panel FP may be compression formed from a fiber mat FPu into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a generally H-shaped area; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a generally U-shaped area; the fiber panel FP may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface SF; the recess RS may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel FP; a resin feature SR / RB may be formed at the inner surfaceFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02of the fiber panel I P; the recess RS may be configured to form a seam providing the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP for the opening for the composite structure CS; the resin feature SR / RB may be configured to form the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP for the opening for the composite structure CS; the recess RS and the resin feature SR / RB may be configured to form the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP for the opening for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may be formed into the fiber panel FP before the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may be formed into the fiber panel FP as the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS comprising a set of recesses may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS.

[0108] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel FP may be compression formed from a fiber mat FPu into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS comprising a set of recesses may comprise a seam TR; the seam TR may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam TR in the fiber panel FP; a resin structure SR may be formed on the fiber panel FP adjacent to the seam TR; the seam may be configured to provide the weakened area TR / RS for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the seam may be configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a fiber mat FPu compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS comprising a set of recesses for the seam TR may be formed in the fiber mat FPu; the seam TR formed in the fiber mat FPu may be configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS for formationFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the composite structure CS may comprise a fiber mat FPu compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate; the recess RS comprising a set of recesses for the seam TR may be formed in the fiber mat FPu; the seam formed in the fiber mat FPu may be configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the set of recesses RS for the seam TR formed in the fiber mat FPu may comprise a set of holes and / or a set of slots and / or a set of slits; the set of recesses RS for the seam TR formed in the fiber mat FPu may comprise a set of slots; the set of recesses RS for the seam TR formed in the fiber mat FPu may comprise a set of slots configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the set of recesses for the seam TR formed in the fiber mat FPu may comprise a set of slots; the fiber mat FPu may be compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the set of slots in the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate may be configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the set of recesses for the seam TR may be formed in the fiber mat FPu; the fiber mat FPu may be compression formed into the fiber panel FP for the composite structure CS; the set of recesses in the fiber panel FP may be configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the set of recesses for the seam TR formed in the fiber mat FPu may comprise a set of slots; the fiber mat FPu may be compression formed into the fiber panel FP for the composite structure CS; the set of slots in the fiber panel FP may be configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the set of recesses for the seam TR may be formed in the fiber mat FPu; the fiber mat FPu may be compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the set of recesses in the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate may be configured to provide a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS for formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the recess RS may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam TR formed into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate FPc for the composite structure CS; the seam may be configured to form a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02

[0109] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel FP may be compression formed from a fiber mat FPu into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam TR cut into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate FPc for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may comprise a set of recesses comprising a seam TR die-cut into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate FPc for the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be cut into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS comprising the set of recesses formed into the fiber mat FPu may comprise a seam TR formed by die-cutting into the fiber panel FP before the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the seam may be formed into the fiber mat FPu as a tear line TR before compression forming of the fiber mat into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the seam of the fiber panel FP may comprise a tear line TR in the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be formed into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate FPc for the composite structure CS; the seam TR may be formed into the fiber mat FPu before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel FP comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the seam TR formed in the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag AB through an airbag door ABD providing the opening in the composite structure CS; the recess RS may compriseFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02a formed recess; the recess RS may comprise an indentation; the recess RS may be configured to form the airbag door ABD; the recess RS may comprise a linear seam TR; the recess RS may comprise a wavy seam TR; the recess RS may comprise a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening; the recess RS may comprise a groove; the groove may be formed in the fiber panel FP; the groove may comprise a wavy line; the recess RS may comprise a wavy line; the recess RS may comprise a line; the fiber panel FP may comprise a structure adjacent the recess RS; the recess RS may comprise a line; the fiber panel FP may comprise a resin structure SR adjacent the recess RS; the recess RS may comprise a wavy line; the fiber panel FP may comprise a structure adjacent the recess RS; the recess RS may comprise a wavy line; the recess RS may comprise a wavy line.

[0110] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS: the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel FP may be compression formed from a fiber mat FPu into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a rib RB adjacent the recess RS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a resin rib RB adjacent the recess RS; the recess RS may comprise a seam TR; the fiber panel FP may comprise a resin structure SR adjacent the seam TR; the recess RS may comprise a seam TR comprising a linear shape; the fiber panel FP may comprise a resin structure SR adjacent the seam TR; the resin structure SR may comprise a rib RB comprising a linear shape; the recess RS may comprise a seam TR comprising a wavy shape; the fiber panel FP may comprise a resin structure SR adjacent the seam TR; the resin structure SR may comprise a rib RB comprising a wavy shape; the fiber panel FP may be formed from a panel comprising a fiber mat FPu comprising a front side and a rear side.

[0111] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiberFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02panel I P may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel FP may be compression formed from a fiber mat FPu into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the recess RS may be fomied in a mold MX by penetrating material of the panel to form the recess RS in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the recess RS may be formed in a mold MX by penetrating material of the panel to form a set of recesses in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the recess RS may be formed in a mold MX by penetrating material of the panel to form a set of recesses RS comprising a seam TR in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the seam may be configured to form a tear line TR at the weakened area TR / RS to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the composite structure CS with the recess RS may be formed by compressing the panel and penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the composite structure CS with the recess RS may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, and foiming a resin feature SR / RB on the panel; the composite structure CS with the recess RS may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, forming a resin feature SR / RB on the panel, and providing a cover T for the composite structure CS; the composite structure CS comprising the recess RS may be formed in a mold MX by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface MT and a second surface MB of the mold and penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion PR of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess RS in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the composite structure CS comprising the recess RS may be formed in a mold MX by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface MT and a second surface MB of the mold, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion PR of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess RS in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, and forming a resin feature SR / RB on the panel; the recess RS may be formed in a mold MX by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface MT and a second surface MB of the mold and penetrating material of the panel at theFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02rear side with a protrusion PR of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess RS in the rear side to provide the weakened area TR / RS and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the recess RS may be formed in a mold MX by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface MT and a second surface MB of the mold, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side with a protrusion PR of the mold to push material of the panel aside to form the recess RS in the rear side for the weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS, and forming a resin feature SR / RB on the panel at the weakened area for the composite structure CS; the composite structure CS comprising the recess RS may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess RS in the rear side for the weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS and forming a resin feature SR / RB on the panel at the weakened area for the composite structure; the composite structure CS with the recess RS may be formed by compressing the panel, penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess RS in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side, and forming a resin feature SR / RB on the panel configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag AB at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel TP during deployment of the airbag AB; the composite slruclure CS with the recess RS may be formed by compressing a fiber mat FPu into a compression-formed fiber panel FP and penetrating material of the fiber mat at the rear side to form the recess RS in the rear side of the fiber panel and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side of the fiber panel and forming a resin feature SR / RB on the fiber panel configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of an airbag AB at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the composite structure CS with the recess RS may be formed by compressing a fiber mat FPu into a compression-formed fiber panel FP and penetrating material of the fiber mat at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side of the fiber panel and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side of the fiber panel and forming a resin feature SR / RB on the fiber panel.

[0112] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a fiber panel FP comprising a structural substrate; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS for the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature RB; the feature RB in the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise aFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02recess RS in the weakened area of the fiber panel; the fiber panel FP may be compression formed from a fiber mat FPu into the structural substrate for the composite structure CS; the composite structure CS may comprise a resin feature SR / RB formed on the fiber panel FP; the composite structure CS with the recess RS may comprise a resin feature SR / RB formed on the fiber panel FP adjacent to the recess; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a structure; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a rib RB; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a reinforcement; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a set of segments; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a set of ribs RB; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a set of reinforcements; the composite structure CS may comprise a structure SR formed adjacent to the recess RS; the recess RS may comprise a groove; the groove may be formed in the fiber panel FP; the groove may comprise a wavy line: the recess RS may comprise a wavy line; the composite structure CS may comprise resin material R comprising the resin feature SR / RB and a recess RS; the composite structure CS may comprise resin material R comprising the resin feature SR / RB and the recess RS adjacent to the resin feature; the composite structure CS may comprise resin material R comprising the resin feature SR / RB adjacent to the recess RS to facilitate formation of the airbag door ABD at the opening in the composite structure CS; the airbag door ABD may be formed at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP during deployment of the airbag AB; the resin feature SR / RB may be formed by injecting resin material R into a mold tool MX to provide resin material on and / or in the fiber panel FP; the resin material R may comprise fill in and / or on the fiber panel FP; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a resin-filled feature configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag AB through the fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may be formed from a fiber mat FPu comprising the set of holes; the resin feature SR / RB may be molded into and / or onto the fiber panel FP; the composite structure CS may comprise a resin structure SR and the recess RS; the resin structure SR may comprise a rib RB; the resin structure SR may comprise a generally straight line; the resin structure SR may comprise a generally H-shaped line; the resin structure SR may comprise a generally U-shaped line; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a generally flat bottom; the resin feature SR / RB may be formed at the weakened area TR / RS in the fiber panel FP; the component C may further comprise a structure formed on the fiber panel FP; the structure may comprise an injection-molded resin SR; the structure may comprise a set of ribs RB at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP; the set of ribs RB may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD; fiber of the fiber panel FP may be at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure SR; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compression-formed fiber panel FPc; theFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02recess RS may comprise at least one of a tear line TR configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag AB, a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag, a seam TR in the composite structure CS, a seam TR adjacent to a resin feature SR / RB formed on the fiber panel FP, and / or a recess RS under a cover T on the composite structure CS, etc.; the component C may further comprise a cover T on the fiber panel FP; the weakened area TR / RS may be not generally visible at the cover T; the component C may comprise at least one of a trim panel, an instrument panel IP, a door panel DP, and / or a pillar, etc.; the composite structure CS may comprise a panel assembly PL.

[0113] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel FP comprising a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compression formed fiber panel FPc; the compression formed fiber panel FP may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS in the fiber panel FP may comprise a pre-weakened area formed in the fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS in the fiber panel FP may comprise a feature SR / RB configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag AB in the composite structure CS; the feature SR / RB at the weakened area TR / RS in the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of an airbag door ABD to provide the opening for deployment of the airbag AB; the opening may be configured to be formed at a tear line facilitated by a seam TR in the composite structure CS comprising the feature SR / RB at the weakened area TR / RS in the fiber panel FP; the feature SR / RB may comprise a recess RS; the feature SR / RB may comprise a recess RS and a resin structure SR formed adjacent to the recess; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a seam TR; the pre- weakened area TR / RS may comprise a tear line configured to facilitate formation of the seam TR of the weakened area; the pre- weakened area TR / RS may comprise a score line configured to facilitate formation of the seam TR of the weakened area TR / RS; the pre- weakened area TR / RS may comprise a hole arrangement configured to facilitate formation of the seam TR of the weakened area; the pre-weakened area TR / RS may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area TR / RS may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area TR / RS to provide a tear line TR; the pre-weakened area TR / RS may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre- weakened area to provide a score line; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise bending of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise cutting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02weakened area TR / RS may comprise shortening of fibers at the pre- weakened area; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise stretching of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise weakening of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise compressing of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise flexing of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise splitting of fibers at the pre- weakened area; the preweakened area TR / RS may comprise partially splitting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre- weakened area TR / RS may comprise separating of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the fibers may comprise a fiber mat FPu; the pre-weakened area TR / RS may comprise alteration of the fiber mat FPu at the pre-weakened area; alteration of the fiber mat FPu may comprise pre- weakening of the fiber mat; alteration of the fiber mat FPu may comprise weakening of the fiber mat; alteration of the fiber mat FPu may comprise forming a hole pattern in the fiber mat; alteration of the fiber mat FPu may comprise forming a hole pattern in the fiber mat; the pre- weakened area TR / RS of the fiber mat FPu may be formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel FP.

[0114] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel FP comprising a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compression formed fiber panel FPc; the compression formed fiber panel FP may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be generally not visible at an external surface SF of the composite structure CS; the composite structure CS may comprise a cover T; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be generally not visible at the cover T of the composite structure CS; the pre-weakened area TR / RS may comprise the feature RB formed in the fiber mat FPu; the feature RB may comprise a hole; the feature RB may comprise a set of holes; the feature RB may comprise a score line; the feature RB may comprise a tear line TR; the feature RB may comprise a seam TR; the feature RB may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature RB may comprise a recess RS; the feature RB may comprise a recess RS comprising a multi-sided profile; the feature RB may be formed by a die-cut operation; the feature RB may be formed by a tool MX; the feature RB may be formed by a blade; the feature RB may be formed by a needle; the feature RB may be formed by a punch; the feature RB may be formed when the fiber mat FPu is cut to a shape; the feature RB may be formed when the fiber mat FPu is compression-formed to a fiber panelFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02FP; the feature RB may comprise alteration of fibers and / or bending of fibers and / or cutting of fibers and / or shortening of fibers and / or stretching of fibers and / or weakening of fibers and / or compressing of fibers and / or flexing of fibers and / or splitting of fibers and / or partially splitting of fibers; the feature RB may comprise alteration of fibers for weakening of a fiber mat FPu; the pre- weakened area TR / RS may comprise a set of features RB formed in the fiber mat FPu; the set of features may comprise a pattern; the set of features RB may comprise a line; the set of features RB may comprise a score line; the set of features RB may comprise a tear line TR.

[0115] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel FP comprising a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compression formed fiber panel FPc; the compression formed fiber panel FP may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat FPu; the fiber panel FP may comprise fibers; the fiber panel FP may comprise natural fibers; the fiber panel FP may comprise fibers and resin R; the fiber panel FP may comprise fibers of a length of between about 20 to about 75 mm; the fiber panel FP may comprise fibers of a length of less than about 200 mm; the fiber panel FP may comprise fibers of a length of more than about 20 mm; the fiber panel FP may comprise fibers of a length of less than about 75 mm; the fiber panel FP may comprise fibers of a length of more than about 5 mm.

[0116] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel FP comprising a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compression formed fiber panel FPc; the compression formed fiber panel FP may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat FPu; the composite structure CS may comprise a resin feature SR / RB; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a resin structure SR; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a border; the resin feature SR / RB may comprise a reinforcement; the composite structure CS may comprise a stitch SH; the composite structure CS may comprise a stitch SH provided in a stitch pattern; the stitch SH may comprise a reinforcement; the reinforcement may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag AB; the reinforcement may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line TR to provide an airbagFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02door ABD; the reinforcement may be configured to provide a hinge area HG for an airbag door ABD.

[0117] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component C for a vehicle interior VI may comprise forming a feature RB in a fiber mat FPu and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the feature RB may comprise a pre- weakened area TR / RS in the fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag AB through the fiber panel; the feature RB may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature RB may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat FPu; the feature RB may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat FPu to provide the pre-weakened area TR / RS of the fiber mat; the step of forming the feature RB may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature RB may comprise a slit; the feature RB may comprise a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit; formation of the feature RB may comprise alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting; the feature RB may comprise a set of lines; the feature RB may comprise multiple generally parallel lines; the component C may comprise a composite structure CS comprising the fiber panel FP.

[0118] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component C for a vehicle interior VI may comprise forming a feature RB in a fiber mat FPu and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the feature RB may comprise a pre-weakened area TR / RS in the fiber mat FPu; the method may further comprise the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area TR / RS of the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation before compression-forming the fiber mat into the fiber panel FP; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a die-cutting operation; the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat FPu may comprise an operation comprising at leastFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, water cutting, a water cut operation, needle-punching and / or mechanical operation, etc.: the fiber mat FPu may comprise fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene and / or nylon, etc.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02Exemplary Embodiments - B

[0119] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an airbag door ABD may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a pre- weakened area; the weakened area TR / RS may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD at the weakened area of the fiber panel FP during deployment of the airbag AB; the component C may further comprise a cover T on the fiber panel FP; the component C may further comprise a structure SR formed onto the fiber panel FP; the structure SR may comprise an injection-molded resin R; the structure SR may comprise a set of ribs RB at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP; the set of ribs RB may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD.

[0120] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB may comprise a panel PL comprising fibers; the panel PL may comprise a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag AB to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the panel PL may comprise a recess RS in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag AB and direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the front side of the panel PL may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess RS; the panel PL comprising fibers may comprise a compressed fiber panel FPc; the recess RS may be formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel PL or an indentation in the rear side of the panel; the recess RS may be formed in a mold MX by compressing at least a first portion of the panel between a first surface MT and a second surface MB of the mold and penetrating material of the panel PL at the rear side with a protrusion PR 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 recess RS may comprise a path comprising at least one of a continuous wave portion comprising a periodic function and / or a sinusoidal shape; the panel PL further may comprise at least one of a resin R, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and / or polycarbonate;

[0121] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB may comprise a panel PL comprising fibers; the panel PL may comprise a recess RS in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag AB and directFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02deployment of the airbag through the panel; the panel PL may comprise a resin rib RB formed on the panel adjacent the recess RS at the rear side of the panel: the resin rib RB may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag AB through the panel PL; the resin rib RB may extend from the recess RS below the rear side of the panel PL; the recess RS may comprise a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; the connector may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the panel PL may comprise a rib RB adjacent the connector of the recess RS at the rear side of the panel; the rib RB may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the rib RB may comprise a first rib on a side of the connector and a second rib on an opposite side of the connector.

[0122] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB and comprise a panel PL comprising fibers; the panel PL may comprise a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag AB to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the panel PL may comprise a recess RS formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag AB and direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the front side of the panel PL may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess RS; the recess RS may be formed as a hole arrangement within the panel PL; the recess RS may be formed as an indentation in the rear side of the panel PL; the recess RS may comprise a depth within the panel PL; the recess RS may comprise a score line.

[0123] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI formed in a mold MX and configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB from an airbag module may comprise a panel PL comprising a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a recess RS; the profile of the recess RS may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP during deployment of the airbag AB through the fiber panel; the recess RS may be formed by the process of compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel FP between a first surface MT and a second surface MB of the mold MX and penetrating material of the fiber panel at the rear side with a protrusion PR of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form the recess RS in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side; the process may further comprise the step of filling a depression of the mold MX with material of the fiber panel FP to form a protrusion PR at the rear side; the panel PL further may comprise at least one of a resin R, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene,FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and / or polycarbonate; the recess RS may comprise a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag AB through the panel PL.

[0124] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component C for a vehicle interior VI may comprise forming a feature RB in a fiber mat FPu and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the feature RB may comprise a pre- weakened area TR / RS in the fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may comprise the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP during deployment of the airbag AB through the fiber panel; the feature RB may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature RB may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat FPu; the feature RB may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat FPu to provide the pre- weakened area TR / RS of the fiber mat; the step of forming the feature RB may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature RB may comprise a slit; the feature RB may comprise a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit; formation of the feature RB may comprise alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting; the feature RB may comprise a set of lines; the feature RB may comprise multiple generally parallel lines.

[0125] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component C for a vehicle interior VI may comprise forming a feature RB in a fiber mat FPu and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the component C may comprise a composite structure CS comprising the fiber panel FP; the method may further comprise the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area TR / RS of the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation before compressionforming the fiber mat into the fiber panel FP; the step of shaping the fiber mat FPu may comprise the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a diecutting operation; the step of forming the feature RB in the fiber mat FPu may comprise an operation comprising at least one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, waterFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02cutting, a water cut operation, needle-punching and / or mechanical operation, etc.; the fiber mat FPu may comprise fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene and / or nylon, etc.

[0126] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component C for a vehicle interior VI may comprise providing a mold MX comprising a first surface and a second surface comprising a protrusion PR and a depression, providing a fiber panel FP comprising a first side and a second side onto the first surface of a mold, compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel between the first surface and the second surface of the mold, penetrating material of the fiber panel at the first side of the panel with the protrusion of the second surface of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form a notch in the first side of the fiber panel and maintain a continuous surface at the second side of the fiber panel, and filling the depression of the second surface of the mold with material of the fiber panel to form a protrusion at the first side of the fiber panel; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a notch; the notch may comprise a recess RS; the recess RS may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP during deployment of the airbag AB through the fiber panel FP.

[0127] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a pre-weakened area; the weakened area TR / RS may be configured to direct the formation of an airbag door ABD at the weakened area of the fiber panel FP during deployment of the airbag AB; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a line; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a score line; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a seam TR; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a set of holes; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a set of indentations; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a hole arrangement; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a recess RS; the recess RS may comprise an aperture; the recess RS may comprise a set of apertures; the recess RS may comprise a set of holes; the recess RS may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a recess RS comprising a profile configured to provideFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02a seam and / or tear line TR for formation of the opening in the structural substrate; the profile of the recess RS may comprise at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth, etc.; the profile of the recess RS may comprise at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement, etc.

[0128] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compressed fiber panel FPc; the fiber panel substrate FP may comprise a compressed fiber panel FPc formed by compression of a fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a generally H-shaped area; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a generally U-shaped area; the fiber panel FP may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface SF; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a recess RS; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a recess RS comprising a profile configured to provide a scam and / or tear line TR for formation of the opening in the structural substrate; the recess RS comprising the profile may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel FP; the recess RS may be configured to form a seam TR for an opening through the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP for an airbag door ABD; the profile may comprise a multi-side form; the profile may comprise a variable depth; the profile may comprise a transition area RX; the transition area RX may comprise a transition into the profile; the transition area RX may comprise a transition into a generally trapezoidal section of the profile; the transition area RX may comprise a generally curved form; the transition area RX may comprise a feature RB formed adjacent to the recess RS; the feature RB may comprise a ridge segment RZ; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a set of segments; the set of segments may comprise a set of lateral segments connected by a center line; the recess RS may comprise a formed recess RS; the recess RS may comprise an indentation; the recess RS may comprise a hole; the recess RS may comprise a wavy line; the bottom may comprise a generally flat bottom; the set of walls may comprise a set of flat tapered walls adjacent to the bottom; the component C may further comprise a structure SR formed on the fiber panel FP; the structure SR may comprise an injection-molded resin R; the structure SR may comprise a set of ribs RB at the weakened area TR / RS of the fiber panel FP; the set of ribs RB may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD; fiber of the fiber panel FP may be at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure SR; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compression-formed fiber panel FPc; the component C may further comprise a panel PLFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02comprising the fiber panel FP; the panel PL may comprise at least one of a resin R, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and / or polycarbonate: the recess RS may comprise at least one of a tear line TR configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag AB and / or a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the component C may further comprise a cover T on the fiber panel FP; the weakened area TR / RS may be not generally visible at the cover T; the component C may comprise at least one of a trim panel, an instrument panel IP, a door panel DP, a pillar, a composite slruclure CS comprising the structural substrate and / or a composite slruclure CS comprising the structural substrate and a cover T.

[0129] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an airbag door ABD may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel FP; the fiber panel FP may comprise a base area and a weakened area TR / RS; the weakened area TR / RS may comprise a prc-wcakcncd area; the weakened area TR / RS may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door ABD at the weakened area of the fiber panel FP during deployment of the airbag AB; the pre-weakened area TR / RS may be formed in a fiber mat FPu; the fiber mat FPu may be compression-formed into the fiber panel FP; the preweakened area TR / RS of the fiber mat FPu may be formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel FP.

[0130] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag AB through an opening may comprise a composite structure CS comprising a structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel FP comprising a base area and weakened area TR / RS; the fiber panel FP may comprise a compression formed fiber panel FP; the compression formed fiber panel FP may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat FPu; the weakened area TR / RS in the fiber panel FP may comprise a pre-weakened area; the weakened area TR / RS in the fiber panel FP may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag AB.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02Exemplary Embodiments - C

[0131] According an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and a weakened area, the weakened area may comprise a preweakened area and the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the weakened area may comprise a line; the weakened area may comprise a score line; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the weakened area may comprise a set of holes; the weakened area may comprise a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement. The weakened area may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern. The weakened area may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise a slit and / or a slot; the recess may comprise an aperture; the recess may comprise a set of apertures; the recess may comprise a set of holes and / or slits and / or slots; the recess may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise a recess comprising a profile; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth, etc.; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement, etc.; the profile may comprise a multi-side form; the profile may comprise a variable depth; the profile may comprise a transition area; the transition area may comprise a transition into the profile; the transition area may comprise a transition into a generally trapezoidal section of the profile; the transition area may comprise a generally curved form; the transition area may comprise a feature formed adjacent to the recess; the feature may comprise a ridge segment. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel. The fiber panel substrate may comprise a compressed fiber panel formed by compression of a fiber mat. 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 comprising the profile may be formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface; the recess comprising the profile 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 airbag door; 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 aFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02formed recess; the recess may comprise an indentation; the recess may comprise a hole; the recess may comprise a wavy line; the bottom of the recess may comprise a generally flat bottom; the set of walls may comprise a set of flat tapered walls adjacent to the bottom. 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. 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 panel may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc. The recess may comprise at least one of a tear line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag or a weakening line configured to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag. A cover may be provided on the fiber panel; the weakened area may not be generally visible at the cover. The component for the vehicle interior may comprise at least one of a trim panel, an instrument panel, a door panel, a pillar, etc.

[0132] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an airbag door. The component may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a pre-weakened area; the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the pre-weakened area may be formed in a fiber mat; the fiber mat may be compression- formed into the fiber panel; the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat may be formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel.

[0133] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening. The component may comprise a composite structure comprising a structural substrate; the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel comprising a base area and weakened area; the fiber panel may comprise a compression formed fiber panel; the compression formed fiber panel may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat; the weakened area in the fiber panel may comprise a pre- weakened area; the weakened area in the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag. The component may comprise a composite structure comprising a structural substrate: the structural substrate may comprise a fiber panel comprising a base area and weakened area; the fiber panel may comprise a compression formed fiber panel; theFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02compression formed fiber panel may be formed by compression forming of a fiber mat; the weakened area in the fiber panel may comprise a pre- weakened area formed in the fiber mat: the weakened area in the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag; the weakened area in the fiber panel may be configured to facilitate formation of an airbag door to provide the opening for deployment of the airbag; the opening may be formed at a seam; the weakened area may comprise the seam; the preweakened area may comprise a tear line configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise a score line configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area; the pre- weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area; the preweakened area may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area to provide a tear line; the preweakened area may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area to provide a score line; the prc-wcakcncd area may comprise bending of fibers at the prc-wcakcncd area; the pre-weakened area may comprise cutting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the preweakened area may comprise shortening of fibers at the pre- weakened area; the preweakened area may comprise stretching of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise weakening of fibers at the pre- weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise compressing of fibers at the pre- weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise flexing of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre- weakened area may comprise splitting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise partially splitting of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the pre-weakened area may comprise separating of fibers at the pre-weakened area. The fibers may comprise a fiber matrix; the pre-weakened area may comprise alteration of the fiber matrix at the pre- weakened area; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise pre-weakening of the fiber matrix; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise weakening of the fiber matrix; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise forming a hole pattern in the fiber matrix; alteration of the fiber matrix may comprise forming a hole pattern in the fiber mat; the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat may be formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel; the weakened area of the fiber panel may not generally be visible at an external surface of the composite stmeture; the composite structure may comprise a cover; the weakened area of the fiber panel may not generally be visible at the cover of the composite structure; the pre-weakened area may comprise a feature formed in the fiber mat. The feature may comprise a hole; the feature may comprise a set of holes; the feature may comprise a score line; the feature may comprise a tear line; the feature mayFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02comprise a seam; the feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature may comprise a recess; the feature may comprise a recess comprising a multi-sided profile; the feature may be formed by a die-cut operation; the feature may be formed by a tool; the feature may be formed by a blade; the feature may be formed by a needle; the feature may be formed by a punch; the feature may be formed when the fiber mat is cut to a shape; the feature may be formed when the fiber mat is compression-formed to a fiber panel; the feature may comprise alteration of fibers; the feature may comprise bending of fibers; the feature may comprise cutting of fibers; the feature may comprise shortening of fibers; the feature may comprise stretching of fibers; the feature may comprise weakening of fibers; the feature may comprise compressing of fibers; the feature may comprise flexing of fibers; the feature may comprise splitting of fibers; the feature may comprise partially splitting of fibers; the feature may comprise alteration of fibers for weakening of a fiber matrix. The pre-weakened area may comprise a set of features formed in the fiber mat; the set of features may comprise a pattern; the set of features may comprise a line; the set of features may comprise a score line; the set of features may comprise a tear line. The fiber panel may comprise fibers; the fiber panel may comprise natural fibers; the fiber panel may comprise fibers and resin; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of between about 20 to about 75 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of less than about 200 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of more than about 20 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of less than about 75 mm; the fiber panel may comprise fibers of a length of more than about 5 mm. The composite structure may comprise a resin feature; the resin feature may comprise a resin structure; the resin feature may comprise a border; the resin feature may comprise a reinforcement. The composite structure may comprise a stitch; the composite structure may comprise a stitch pattern; the composite structure may comprise a stitch provided in a stitch pattern; the stitch may comprise a reinforcement; the reinforcement may be configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag; the reinforcement may be configured to facilitate formation of a tear line to provide an airbag door; the reinforcement may be configured to provide a hinge area for an airbag door.

[0134] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an airbag door. The component may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a pre-weakened area; the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of theFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02airbag. The component may comprise a cover on the fiber panel. The component may 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.

[0135] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag. The component may comprise a panel comprising fibers; the panel may comprise a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the panel may comprise a recess in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag and direct deployment of the airbag through the panel: the front side of the panel may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess, he panel comprising fibers may comprise a compressed fiber panel; the recess may be formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel or an indentation in the rear side of the 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 recess may comprise a path comprising at least one of a continuous wave portion comprising a periodic function or a sinusoidal shape; the panel further may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.; the panel may comprise a resin rib formed on the panel adjacent the recess at the rear side of the panel; the resin rib may be configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; the resin rib may extend from the recess below the rear side of the panel; the recess may comprise a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; the connector may comprise a generally sinusoidal shape; the 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.

[0136] According an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag and may comprise a panel comprising fibers; the panel may comprise a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag; the panel may comprise a recess formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag and direct deployment of theFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02airbag through the panel; the front side of the panel may comprise a substantially planar surface opposite the recess; the recess may be formed as a hole arrangement within the panel; the recess may be formed as an indentation in the rear side of the panel; the recess may comprise a depth within the panel; the recess may comprise a score line.

[0137] According an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior formed in a mold and configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag from an airbag module may comprise a panel comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a recess; the profile of the recess may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; the recess may be fomied by compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold and penetrating material of the fiber panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form the recess in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side; formation of the recess may further comprise the step of filling a depression of the mold with material of the fiber panel to form a protrusion at the rear side; the panel further may comprise at least one of a resin, a thermoplastic resin, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, etc.; the recess may comprise a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel.

[0138] According an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior may comprise the steps of forming a feature in a fiber mat and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the feature may comprise a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat: the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat. The step of forming the feature may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature may comprise a slit. The feature may comprise a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit. Formation of the feature may comprise alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting. The feature may comprise a set of lines; the feature may comprise multiple generally parallel lines. The component may comprise a composite structure comprising the fiber panel. The method mayFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02further comprise the step of shaping the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a diecutting operation before compression-forming the fiber mat into the fiber panel. The step of compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel may comprise forming the preweakened area into a weakened area; the step of forming the feature may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix reforming after alteration of fibers; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers. The weakened area of the fiber panel of the structural substrate may comprise a fiber matrix reformed after alteration of fibers at the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers. The step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a die-cutting operation; the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat may comprise an operation comprising at least one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, water cutting, a water cut operation, needle-punching, mechanical operation. The fiber mat may comprise fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, etc.

[0139] According an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior may comprise the steps of (a) providing a mold comprising a first surface and a second surface comprising a protrusion and a depression; (b) providing a fiber panel comprising a first side and a second side onto the first surface of a mold; (c) compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel between the first surface and the second surface of the mold; (d) penetrating material of the fiber panel at the first side of the panel with the protrusion of the second surface of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form a notch in the first side of the fiber panel and maintain a continuous surface at the second side of the fiber panel; and (e) filling the depression of the second surface of the mold with material of the fiber panel to form a protrusion at the first side of the fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the weakened area may comprise the notch; the notch may comprise a recess; the recess may beFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

[0140] According an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may comprise a composite structure comprising a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel with a weakened area; the weakened area in the fiber panel may comprise a feature formed at a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat; 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 linear-shaped line. The seam may comprise a wavy-shaped line. A set of holes formed in a fiber mat as a preweakened area may provide a feature comprising a weakened area in the fiber panel; the feature may be configured to facilitate formation of an opening for deployment of an airbag through the fiber panel. The composite structure may comprise a feature formed on the fiber panel from a resin material; 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. 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.

[0141] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in 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 mat and / or fiber panel. TheFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02component 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 frunk, a hatch, a car rear compartment, a car front compartment, a visor, a vanity, a glove box, a receptacle in an instrument panel.

[0142] The vehicle interior component is configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening. The component may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and a weakened area, the weakened area may comprise a pre-weakened area and the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a line; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a score line; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a seam; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a set of holes; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a set of indentations; the prc-wcakcncd / wcakcncd area may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement. The pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern. The pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise a slit and / or a slot; the recess may comprise an aperture; the recess may comprise a set of apertures; the recess may comprise a set of holes and / or slits and / or slots; the recess may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a recess comprising a profile; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth, etc.; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement, etc.: A method of manufacturing the component may comprise the steps of forming a feature in a fiber mat and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel; the feature may comprise a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat; the fiber panel is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat. The step of forming the feature may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature may comprise a slit. The weakened area of the fiber panel of the structural substrateFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02may comprise a fiber matrix reformed after alteration of fibers at the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat: the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02Exemplary Embodiments - D

[0143] According an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and a weakened area, the weakened area may comprise a preweakened area and the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the weakened area may comprise a line; the weakened area may comprise a score line; the weakened area may comprise a seam; the weakened area may comprise a set of holes; the weakened area may comprise a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement. The weakened area may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern. The weakened area may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise a slit and / or a slot; the recess may comprise an aperture; the recess may comprise a set of apertures; the recess may comprise a set of holes and / or slits and / or slots; the recess may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the weakened area may comprise a recess comprising a profile; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth, etc.; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement, etc.; the profile may comprise a multi-side form; the profile may comprise a variable depth; the profile may comprise a transition area; the transition area may comprise a transition into the profile; the transition area may comprise a transition into a generally trapezoidal section of the profile; the transition area may comprise a generally curved form; the transition area may comprise a feature formed adjacent to the recess; the feature may comprise a ridge segment. The fiber panel may comprise a compressed fiber panel. The fiber panel substrate may comprise a compressed fiber panel formed by compression of a fiber mat.

[0144] According the an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES, a method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior may comprise the steps of forming a feature in a fiber mat and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the feature may comprise a preweakened area in the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise the preweakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the featureFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat. The step of forming the feature may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature may comprise a slit. The feature may comprise a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit. Formation of the feature may comprise alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting. The feature may comprise a set of lines; the feature may comprise multiple generally parallel lines. The component may comprise a composite structure comprising the fiber panel. The method may further comprise the step of shaping the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation; the step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation before compression-forming the fiber mat into the fiber panel. The step of compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel may comprise forming the pre- weakened area into a weakened area; the step of forming the feature may comprise alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix reforming after alteration of fibers; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers. The weakened area of the fiber panel of the structural substrate may comprise a fiber matrix reformed after alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers. The step of shaping the fiber mat may comprise the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a die-cutting operation; the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat may comprise an operation comprising at least one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, water cutting, a water cut operation, needle-punching, mechanical operation. The fiber mat may comprise fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, etc.

[0145] According an exemplary embodiment indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the component may comprise a composite structure comprising a fiber panel formed from a fiber mat / bank with a pre-weakened area comprising a score line comprising a recess and / or feature; the pre-weakened area of the fiber may may be formed into a weakened area of the fiber panel formed by compression-forming of the fiber mat. The pre- weakened area / score line may be formed when the fiber may is shape-formed (e.g. by die-cut operation withFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02perimeter, holes, etc.); the fibers of the fiber mat / fiber panel maybe cut, broken, deformed, altered, etc.; the fibers of the fiber panel may be reformed during compression formation of the fiber mat into the fiber panel; the pre-weakened area / score line may comprise altered / broken fibers, etc.; the pre-weakened area may comprises a set of slots, slits, holes, apertures, etc. having a length, spacing, etc. to provide a desired weakening of the fiber panel at the weakened area formed at the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the pre-weakened area may comprise a line or set of lines; fibers may be cut and / or partially cut at the preweakened area and weakened area. Fibers at the pre-weakened area may have a selected / formed width, shape, form, size, depth; the feature may comprise one or a set of a pattern, a hole, a line, a circle / dot pattern, a wave / line, a dual line, a multi-line, a single line, etc. The fiber may may be provided with the recess / feature and the shape in an operation such as a die-cut process before compression-forming / molding operation (e.g. die-cut with blade, punch, needle, tool, etc.); the pre-weakened area may comprise a tear seam of general dimensions formed into a weakened area in the fiber panel (e.g. without need to be molded to a specific thickness to achieve proper tear / formation of opening during deployment of the airbag); performance and manufacturability may be enhanced for the component with efficient production.

[0146] According an exemplary embodiment indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the component may comprise a composite structure comprising a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and a weakened area, the weakened area may comprise a pre-weakened area and the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a line; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a score line; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a seam; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a set of holes; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement. The pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern. The pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise a slit and / or a slot; the recess may comprise an aperture; the recess may comprise a set of apertures; the recess may comprise a set of holes and / or slits and / or slots; the recess may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a recess comprising a profile;FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth, etc.; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement, etc.; A method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior may comprise the steps of forming a feature in a fiber mat and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and weakened area; the feature may comprise a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a recess and / or a hole / slot / slit / groove arrangement; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat. The step of forming the feature may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature may comprise a slit. The feature may comprise a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit. The weakened area of the fiber panel of the structural substrate may comprise a fiber matrix reformed after alteration of fibers at the preweakened area of the fiber mat; the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers. The composite structure may comprise a cover / wrap; the weakened area may be concealed under the cover / wrap.

[0147] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior may be configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening. The component may comprise a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel; the fiber panel may comprise a base area and a weakened area, the weakened area may comprise a pre- weakened area and the weakened area may be configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a line; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a score line; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a seam; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a set of holes; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a hole arrangement. The pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a pattern; the pattern may comprise a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern. The pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a recess; the recess may comprise a slit and / or a slot; the recess may comprise an aperture; the recess may comprise a set of apertures; the recess may comprise a set of holes and / or slits and / or slots; the recess may comprise at least one of a set of holesFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02and / or a set of indentations; the pre-weakened / weakened area may comprise a recess comprising a profile; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth, etc.; the profile of the recess may comprise at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement, etc.; A method of manufacturing the component may comprise the steps of forming a feature in a fiber mat and compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel; the feature may comprise a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat; the weakened area of the fiber panel may comprise the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat; the fiber panel is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel. The feature may comprise a hole arrangement; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat; the feature may comprise alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat. The step of forming the feature may comprise forming a set of slits; the feature may comprise a slit. The weakened area of the fiber panel of the structural substrate may comprise a fiber matrix reformed after alteration of fibers at the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat: the weakened area may comprise a fiber matrix with alteration of fibers.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02* * *

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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 inFIP 25001 -PCT-US-02exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) or may comprise any other applicable technology (present and / or future) with suitability and / or capability to perform the functions and processes / operations described in the specification and / or illustrated in the FIGURES. All such technology (e.g. as implemented in embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is considered to be within the scope of the present inventions of the present patent document.

Claims

FIP 25001 -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 comprising a structural substrate; wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and a weakened area for the composite structure:wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure;wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises a feature;wherein the feature in the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises a recess in the weakened area of the fiber panel.

2. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess in the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises a set of recesses in the weakened area of the fiber panel.

3. fhe component of Claim 1 wherein the weakened area comprises a seam.

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

5. The component of Claim 2 wherein the set of recesses of the weakened area comprises a seam.

6. The component of Claim 5 wherein the seam is configured to provide a tear line for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

7. The component of Claim 5 wherein the seam is configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening.

8. The component of Claim 5 wherein the seam is configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door formed in the composite structure to provide the opening for the airbag.

9. The component of Claim 1 wherein the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

10. The component of Claim 1 wherein the fiber panel is compression formed from a fiber mat into the structural substrate for the composite structure.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0211. The component of Claim 1 wherein the weakened area comprises a generally H-shaped area.

12. The component of Claim 1 wherein the weakened area comprises a generally U-shaped area.

13. The component of Claim 1 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.

14. The component of Claim 1 wherein the fiber panel comprises an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein a resin feature is formed at the inner surface of the fiber panel.

15. fhe component of Claim 14 wherein the recess is configured to form a seam providing the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening for the composite structure.

16. The component of Claim 14 wherein the resin feature is configured to form the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening for the composite structure.

17. The component of Claim 14 wherein the recess and the resin feature are configured to form the weakened area of the fiber panel for the opening for the composite structure.

18. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess is formed into the fiber panel before the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

19. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess is formed into the fiber panel as the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

20. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprising a set of recesses is formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising structural substrate for the composite structure.

21. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprising a set of recesses comprises a seam; wherein the seam is formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure.

22. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a set of recesses comprising a seam in the fiber panel; wherein a resin structure is formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the seam.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0223. The component of Claim 1 wherein the seam is configured to provide the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

24. The component of Claim 1 wherein the seam is configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

25. The component of Claim 1 wherein the fiber panel comprises a fiber mat compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure; wherein the recess comprising a set of recesses for the seam is formed in the fiber mat; wherein the seam formed in the fiber mat is configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

26. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a fiber mat compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate.

27. The component of Claim 26 wherein the recess comprising a set of recesses for the seam is formed in the fiber mat; wherein the seam formed in the fiber mat is configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area of the fiber panel for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

28. The component of Claim 26 wherein the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat comprises a set of holes and / or a set of slots and / or a set of slits.

29. The component of Claim 26 wherein the set of recesses for the scam formed in the fiber mat comprises a set of slots.

30. The component of Claim 26 wherein the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat comprises a set of slots configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area of the fiber panel for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

31. The component of Claim 26 wherein the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat comprises a set of slots; wherein fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; wherein the set of slots in the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate is configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0232. The component of Claim 26 wherein the set of recesses for the seam is formed in the fiber mat; wherein the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel for the composite structure; wherein the set of recesses in the fiber panel is configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

33. The component of Claim 26 wherein the set of recesses for the seam formed in the fiber mat comprises a set of slots; wherein the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel for the composite structure; wherein the set of slots in the fiber panel is configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

34. The component of Claim 26 wherein the set of recesses for the seam is formed in the fiber mat; wherein the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure; wherein the set of recesses in the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate is configured to provide a tear line at the weakened area for formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

35. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a set of recesses comprising a seam formed into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

36. The component of Claim 35 wherein the seam is configured to form a tear line at the weakened area to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

37. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a set of recesses comprising a seam cut into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

38. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a set of recesses comprising a seam die-cut into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

39. The component of Claim 26 wherein the seam is formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0240. The component of Claim 26 wherein the seam is cut into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure.

41. The component of Claim 26 wherein the recess comprising the set of recesses formed into the fiber mat comprises a seam formed by die-cutting into the fiber panel before the fiber panel is compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

42. The component of Claim 26 wherein the seam is formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure.

43. The component of Claim 26 wherein the seam is formed into the fiber mat as a tear line before compression forming of the fiber mat into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure.

44. The component of Claim 35 wherein the seam of the fiber panel comprises a tear line in the structural substrate for the composite structure.

45. fhe component of Claim 35 wherein the seam is formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure.

46. The component of Claim 35 wherein the seam is formed into the fiber panel compression formed into the structural substrate for the composite structure.

47. The component of Claim 26 wherein the seam is formed into the fiber mat before the fiber mat is compression formed into the fiber panel comprising the structural substrate for the composite structure.

48. The component of Claim 35 wherein the seam formed in the fiber panel is configured to facilitate deployment of the airbag through an airbag door providing the opening in the composite structure.

49. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a formed recess.

50. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises an indentation.

51. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess is configured to form the airbag door.

52. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a linear seam.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0253. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a wavy seam 54. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a profile configured to direct the formation of the opening.

55. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a groove; wherein the groove is formed in the fiber panel.

56. The component of Claim 55 wherein the groove comprises a wavy line.

57. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a wavy line.

58. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a line; wherein the fiber panel comprises a structure adjacent the recess.

59. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a line; wherein the fiber panel comprises a resin structure adjacent the recess.

60. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a wavy line; wherein the fiber panel comprises a structure adjacent the recess.

61. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a wavy line; wherein the fiber panel comprises a resin structure adjacent the recess.

62. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a wavy line; wherein the fiber panel comprises a rib adjacent the recess.

63. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a wavy line; wherein the fiber panel comprises a resin rib adjacent the recess.

64. fhe component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a seam; wherein the fiber panel comprises a resin structure adjacent the seam.

65. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a seam comprising a linear shape; wherein the fiber panel comprises a resin structure adjacent the seam; wherein the resin structure comprises a rib comprising a linear shape.

66. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a seam comprising a wavy shape; wherein the fiber panel comprises a resin structure adjacent the seam; wherein the resin structure comprises a rib comprising a wavy shape.

67. The component of Claim 1 wherein the fiber panel is formed from a panel comprising a fiber mat comprising a front side and a rear side.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0268. The component of Claim 67 wherein the recess is formed in a mold by penetrating material of the panel to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

69. The component of Claim 67 wherein the recess is formed in a mold by penetrating material of the panel to form a set of recesses in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

70. The component of Claim 67 wherein the recess is formed in a mold by penetrating material of the panel to form a set of recesses comprising a seam in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

71. The component of Claim 67 wherein the seam is configured to form a tear line at the weakened area to facilitate formation of the opening for the airbag in the composite structure.

72. The component of Claim 67 wherein the composite structure with the recess is formed by (a) compressing the panel; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

73. The component of Claim 67 wherein the composite structure with the recess is formed by (a) compressing the panel; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; (c) forming a resin feature on the panel.

74. The component of Claim 67 wherein the composite structure with the recess is formed by (a) compressing the panel; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; (c) forming a resin feature on the panel; (d) providing a cover for the composite structure.

75. The component of Claim 67 wherein the composite structure comprising 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 to maintain a continuous surface at the front side.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0276. The component of Claim 67 wherein the composite structure comprising 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 to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; (c) forming a resin feature on the panel.

77. The component of Claim 67 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 to provide the weakened area and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

78. The component of Claim 67 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 for the weakened area for the composite structure; (c) forming a resin feature on the panel at the weakened area for the composite structure.

79. The component of Claim 67 wherein the composite structure comprising the recess is formed by: (a) compressing the panel; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side for the weakened area for the composite structure; (c) forming a resin feature on the panel at the weakened area for the composite structure.

80. The component of Claim 67 wherein the composite structure with the recess is formed by (a) compressing the panel; (b) penetrating material of the panel at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side; (c) forming a resin feature on the panel 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.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0281. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure with the recess is formed by (a) compressing a fiber mat into a compression- formed fiber panel and penetrating material of the fiber mat at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side of the fiber panel and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side of the fiber panel; (b) forming a resin feature on the fiber panel 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.

82. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure with the recess is formed by (a) compressing a fiber mat into a compression- formed fiber panel and penetrating material of the fiber mat at the rear side to form the recess in the rear side of the fiber panel and to maintain a continuous surface at the front side of the fiber panel; (b) forming a resin feature on the fiber panel.

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

84. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure with the recess comprises a resin feature formed on the fiber panel adjacent to the recess.

85. The component of Claim 84 wherein the resin feature comprises a structure.

86. The component of Claim 84 wherein the resin feature comprises a rib.

87. The component of Claim 84 wherein the resin feature comprises a reinforcement88. The component of Claim 84 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of segments.

89. The component of Claim 84 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of ribs.

90. The component of Claim 84 wherein the resin feature comprises a set of reinforcements.

91. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a structure formed adjacent to the recess.

92. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a groove; wherein the groove is formed in the fiber panel.

93. The component of Claim 1 wherein the groove comprises a wavy line.

94. The component of Claim 1 wherein the recess comprises a wavy line.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-0295. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature and a recess.

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

97. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises resin material comprising the resin feature adjacent to the recess to facilitate formation of the airbag door the opening in the composite structure.

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

99. The component of Claim 1 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.

100. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin material comprises fill in and / or on the fiber panel.

101. The component of Claim 1 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.

102. The component of Claim 1 wherein the fiber panel is formed from a fiber mat comprising the set of holes.

103. The component of Claim 1 wherein the resin feature is molded into and / or onto the fiber panel.

104. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin structure and the recess.

105. The component of Claim 104 wherein the resin structure comprises a rib.

106. The component of Claim 104 wherein the resin structure comprises a generally straight line.

107. fhe component of Claim 104 wherein the resin structure comprises a generally H-shaped line.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02108. The component of Claim 104 wherein the resin structure comprises a generally U-shaped line.

109. The component of Claim 104 wherein the resin feature comprises a generally flat bottom.

110. The component of Claim 104 wherein the resin feature is formed at the weakened area in the fiber panel.

111. The component of Claim 1 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.

112. The component of Claim 111 wherein fiber of the fiber panel is at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure.

113. The component of Claim 111 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compression-formed fiber panel.

114. The component of Claim 1 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; (c) a seam in the composite structure; (d) a seam adjacent to a resin feature formed on the fiber panel; (e) a recess under a cover on the composite structure.

115. The component of Claim 1 further comprising a cover on the fiber panel; wherein the weakened area is not generally visible at the cover.

116. The component of Claim 1 comprising at least one of (a) a trim panel; (b) an instrument panel; (c) a door panel; (d) a pillar.

117. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a panel assembly.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02118. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising:a composite structure comprising a structural substrate;wherein the structural substrate comprises a fiber panel comprising a base area and weakened area;wherein the fiber panel comprises a compression formed fiber panel;wherein the compression formed fiber panel is formed by compression forming of a fiber mat;wherein the weakened area in the fiber panel comprises a pre-weakened area formed in the fiber mat;wherein the weakened area in the fiber panel comprises a feature configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag in the composite structure.

119. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature at the weakened area in the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of an airbag door to provide the opening for deployment of the airbag.

120. The component of Claim 118 wherein the opening is configured to be formed at a tear line facilitated by a seam in the composite structure comprising the feature at the weakened area in the fiber panel.

121. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a recess.

122. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a recess and a resin structure formed adjacent to the recess.

123. The component of Claim 118 wherein the weakened area comprises a seam.

124. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises a tear line configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area.

125. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre- weakened area comprises a score line configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area.

126. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises a hole arrangement configured to facilitate formation of the seam of the weakened area.

127. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02128. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises alteration of fibers at the pre-weakened area to provide a tear line.

129. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises alteration of fibers at the pre- weakened area to provide a score line.

130. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises bending of fibers at the pre- weakened area.

131. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre- weakened area comprises cutting of fibers at the pre- weakened area.

132. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises shortening of fibers at the pre- weakened area.

133. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises stretching of fibers at the pre-weakened area.

134. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises weakening of fibers at the pre- weakened area.

135. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises compressing of fibers at the pre-weakened area.

136. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre- weakened area comprises flex of fibers at the pre- weakened area.

137. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises splitting of fibers at the pre-weakened area.

138. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises partially splitting of fibers at the pre-weakened area.

139. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises separating of fibers at the pre-weakened area.

140. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fibers comprise a fiber matrix.

141. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises alteration of the fiber matrix at the pre-weakened area.

142. The component of Claim 118 wherein alteration of the fiber matrix comprises pre-weakening of the fiber matrix.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02143. The component of Claim 118 wherein alteration of the fiber matrix comprises weakening of the fiber matrix.

144. The component of Claim 118 wherein alteration of the fiber matrix comprises forming a hole pattern in the fiber matrix.

145. The component of Claim 118 wherein alteration of the fiber matrix comprises forming a hole pattern in the fiber mat.

146. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat is formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel.

147. fhe component of Claim 118 wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel is generally not visible at an external surface of the composite structure.

148. The component of Claim 118 wherein the composite structure comprises a cover.

149. The component of Claim 118 wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel is generally not visible at the cover of the composite structure.

150. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises the feature formed in the fiber mat.

151. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a hole.

152. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a set of holes.

153. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a score line.

154. fhe component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a tear line.

155. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a seam.

156. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a hole arrangement.

157. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a recess.

158. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises a recess comprising a multi-sided profile.

159. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature is formed by a die-cut operation.

160. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature is formed by a tool.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02161. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature is formed by a blade.

162. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature is formed by a needle.

163. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature is formed by a punch.

164. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature is formed when the fiber mat is cut to a shape.

165. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature is formed when the fiber mat is compression- formed to a fiber panel.

166. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises alteration of fibers and / or bending of fibers and / or cutting of fibers and / or shortening of fibers and / or stretching of fibers and / or weakening of fibers and / or compressing of fibers and / or flexing of fibers and / or splitting of fibers and / or partially splitting of fibers.

167. The component of Claim 118 wherein the feature comprises alteration of fibers for weakening of a fiber matrix.

168. The component of Claim 118 wherein the pre-weakened area comprises a set of features formed in the fiber mat.

169. The component of Claim 118 wherein the set of features comprises a pattern.

170. The component of Claim 118 wherein the set of features comprises a line.

171. The component of Claim 118 wherein the set of features comprises a score line.

172. The component of Claim 118 wherein the set of features comprises a tear line.

173. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers.

174. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises natural fibers.

175. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers and resin.

176. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers of a length of between about 20 to about 75 mm.

177. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers of a length of less than about 200 mm.

178. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers of a length of more than about 20 mm.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02179. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers of a length of less than about 75 mm.

180. The component of Claim 118 wherein the fiber panel comprises fibers of a length of more than about 5 mm.

181. The component of Claim 118 wherein the composite structure comprises a resin feature.

182. The component of Claim 118 wherein the resin feature comprises a resin structure.

183. fhe component of Claim 118 wherein the resin feature comprises a border.

184. The component of Claim 118 wherein the resin feature comprises a reinforcement.

185. The component of Claim 118 wherein the composite structure comprises a stitch.

186. The component of Claim 118 wherein the composite structure comprises a stitch provided in a stitch pattern.

187. The component of Claim 118 wherein the stitch comprises a reinforcement.

188. The component of Claim 118 wherein the reinforcement is configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.

189. The component of Claim 118 wherein the reinforcement is configured to facilitate formation of a tear line to provide an airbag door.

190. The component of Claim 118 wherein the reinforcement is configured to provide a hinge area for an airbag door.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02191. A method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior comprising: (a) forming a feature in a fiber mat;(b) compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel;wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and weakened area;wherein the feature comprises a pre- weakened area in the fiber mat;wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat;wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

192. The method of Claim 191 wherein the feature comprises a hole arrangement.

193. The method of Claim 191 wherein the feature comprises alteration of fiber in the fiber mat.

194. The method of Claim 191 wherein the feature comprises alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat.

195. The method of Claim 191 wherein the step of forming the feature comprises forming a set of slits.

196. The method of Claim 191 wherein the feature comprises a slit.

197. The method of Claim 191 wherein the feature comprises a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit.

198. The method of Claim 191 wherein formation of the feature comprises alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting.

199. The method of Claim 191 wherein the feature comprises a set of lines.

200. The method of Claim 191 wherein the feature comprises multiple generally parallel lines.

201. The method of Claim 191 wherein the component comprises a composite structure comprising the fiber panel.

202. The method of Claim 191 further comprising the step of shaping the fiber mat.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02203. The method of Claim 191 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat.

204. The method of Claim 191 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat.

205. The method of Claim 191 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation.

206. The method of Claim 191 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation before compressionforming the fiber mat into the fiber panel.

207. The method of Claim 191 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a die-cutting operation.

208. The method of Claim 191 wherein the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat comprises an operation comprising at least one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, water cutting, a water cut operation, needle-punching, mechanical operation.

209. The method of Claim 191 wherein the fiber mat comprises fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, etc.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02210. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an airbag door comprising:a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel;wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and weakened area;wherein the weakened area comprises a pre- weakened area;wherein the weakened area is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

211. The component of Claim 210 further comprising a cover on the fiber panel.

212. The component of Claim 210 further comprising a structure formed onto the fiber panel; wherein the structure comprises an injection-molded resin.

213. The component of Claim 210 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.

214. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag comprising:a panel comprising fibers;wherein the panel comprises a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag;wherein the panel comprises a recess in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag and direct deployment of the airbag through the panel; wherein the front side of the panel comprises a substantially planar surface opposite the recess.

215. The component of Claim 214 wherein the panel comprising fibers comprises a compressed fiber panel; wherein the recess is formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel or an indentation in the rear side of the panel.

216. The component of Claim 214 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.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02217. The component of Claim 214 wherein the recess comprises a path comprising at least one of (a) a continuous wave portion comprising a periodic function; (b) a sinusoidal shape.

218. The component of Claim 214 wherein the panel further comprises at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate.

219. The component of Claim 214 wherein the panel comprises a resin rib formed on the panel adjacent the recess at the rear side of the panel; wherein the resin rib is configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel.

220. The component of Claim 219 wherein the resin rib extends from the recess below the rear side of the panel.

221. The component of Claim 214 wherein the recess comprises a path comprising a connector between generally parallel segments; wherein the connector comprises a generally sinusoidal shape; wherein the 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.

222. The component of Claim 221 wherein the rib comprises a first rib on a side of the connector and a second rib on an opposite side of the connector.

223. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag and comprising a panel comprising fibers;wherein the panel comprises a front side providing a surface and a rear side configured for contact from the airbag to establish an opening for deployment of the airbag;wherein the panel comprises a recess formed as a depression in the rear side of the panel to establish the opening for deployment of the airbag and direct deployment of the airbag through the panel;wherein the front side of the panel comprises a substantially planar surface opposite the recess.

224. The component of Claim 223 wherein the recess is formed as a hole arrangement within the panel.

225. The component of Claim 223 wherein the recess is formed as an indentation in the rear side of the panel; wherein the recess comprises a depth within the panel.

226. The component of Claim 223 wherein the recess comprises a score line.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02227. A component for a vehicle interior formed in a mold and configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag from an airbag module comprising:a panel comprising a fiber panel;wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and weakened area;wherein the weakened area comprises a recess;wherein the profile of the recess is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel; wherein the recess is formed by:(a) compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel between a first surface and a second surface of the mold;(b) penetrating material of the fiber panel at the rear side with a protrusion of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form the recess in the rear side and maintain a continuous surface at the front side.

228. The component of Claim 227 further comprising the step of (c) filling a depression of the mold with material of the fiber panel to form a protrusion at the rear side, 229. The component for a vehicle interior of Claim 227 wherein the panel further comprises at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate.

230. The component for a vehicle interior of Claim 227 wherein the recess comprises a notch configured to direct deployment of the airbag through the panel.

231. A method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior comprising: (c) forming a feature in a fiber mat;(d) compression forming the fiber mat into a fiber panel;wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and weakened area;wherein the feature comprises a pre-weakened area in the fiber mat;wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel comprises the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat;wherein the weakened area of the fiber panel is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.

232. The method of Claim 231 wherein the feature comprises a hole arrangement.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02233. The method of Claim 231 wherein the feature comprises alteration of fiber in the fiber mat.

234. The method of Claim 231 wherein the feature comprises alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre- weakened area of the fiber mat.

235. The method of Claim 231 wherein the step of forming the feature comprises forming a set of slits.

236. The method of Claim 231 wherein the feature comprises a slit.

237. The method of Claim 231 wherein the feature comprises a width of a slit and / or a length of a slit and / or a spacing of a slit.

238. The method of Claim 231 wherein formation of the feature comprises alteration of fiber to provide a cutting and / or partial cutting.

239. The method of Claim 231 wherein the feature comprises a set of lines.

240. The method of Claim 231 wherein the feature comprises multiple generally parallel lines.

241. The method of Claim 231 wherein the component comprises a composite structure comprising the fiber panel.

242. The method of Claim 231 further comprising the step of shaping the fiber mat.

243. The method of Claim 231 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat.

244. fhe method of Claim 231 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat by alteration of fiber in the fiber mat to provide the pre-weakened area of the fiber mat.

245. The method of Claim 231 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation.

246. The method of Claim 231 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in a die-cutting operation before compressionforming the fiber mat into the fiber panel.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02247. The method of Claim 231 wherein the step of shaping the fiber mat comprises the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat in an operation comprising a die-cutting operation.

248. The method of Claim 231 wherein the step of forming the feature in the fiber mat comprises an operation comprising at least one of cutting, die cutting, laser-cutting, a laser operation, water cutting, a water cut operation, needle-punching, mechanical operation.

249. The method of Claim 231 wherein the fiber mat comprises fibers comprising at least one of natural materials, natural fibers, kenaf, flax, hemp, manmade materials, glass, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, etc.

250. A method of manufacturing a component for a vehicle interior comprising: (a) providing a mold comprising a first surface and a second surface comprising a protrusion and a depression;(b) providing a fiber panel comprising a first side and a second side onto the first surface of a mold;(c) compressing at least a first portion of the fiber panel between the first surface and the second surface of the mold;(d) penetrating material of the fiber panel at the first side of the panel with the protrusion of the second surface of the mold to push material of the fiber panel aside to form a notch in the first side of the fiber panel and maintain a continuous surface at the second side of the fiber panel; and(e) filling the depression of the second surface of the mold with material of the fiber panel to form a protrusion at the first side of the fiber panel;wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and weakened area:wherein the weakened area comprises the notch;wherein the notch comprises a recess;wherein the recess is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag through the fiber panel.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02251. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising:a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel;wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and a weakened area;wherein the weakened area comprises a pre- weakened area;wherein the weakened area is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

252. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a line.

253. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a score line.

254. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a seam.

255. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a set of holes.

256. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a set of indentations.

257. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations.

258. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a hole arrangement.

259. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a pattern.

260. The component of Claim 251 wherein the pattern comprises a hole pattern.

261. The component of Claim 251 wherein the pattern comprises a hole pattern and / or indentation pattern.

262. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a recess.

263. The component of Claim 262 wherein the recess comprises an aperture.

264. The component of Claim 262 wherein the recess comprises a set of apertures.

265. The component of Claim 262 wherein the recess comprises a set of holes.

266. The component of Claim 262 wherein the recess comprises at least one of a set of holes and / or a set of indentations.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02267. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a recess comprising a profile configured to provide a seam and / or tear line for formation of the opening in the structural substrate.

268. The component of Claim 267 wherein the profile of the recess comprises at least one of a length, a width, a shape, a form, a size, a depth.

269. The component of Claim 267 wherein the profile of the recess comprises at least one of spacing, pattern, quantity, arrangement.

270. The component of Claim 251 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compressed fiber panel.

271. The component of Claim 251 wherein the fiber panel substrate comprises a compressed fiber panel formed by compression of a fiber mat.

272. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a generally H-shapcd area.

273. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a generally U-shaped area.

274. The component of Claim 251 wherein the fiber panel comprises an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein the recess comprising the profile is formed into the inner surface of the fiber panel.

275. The component of Claim 251 wherein the recess is configured to form a seam for an opening through the weakened area of the fiber panel for the airbag door.

276. The component of Claim 251 wherein the profile comprises a multi-side form.

277. The component of Claim 251 wherein the profile comprises a variable depth.

278. The component of Claim 251 wherein the profile comprises a transition area.

279. The component of Claim 251 wherein the transition area comprises a transition into the profile.

280. The component of Claim 251 wherein the transition area comprises a transition into a generally trapezoidal section of the profile.

281. The component of Claim 251 wherein the transition area comprises a generally curved form.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02282. The component of Claim 251 wherein the transition area comprises a feature formed adjacent to the recess; wherein the feature comprises a ridge segment.

283. The component of Claim 251 wherein the weakened area comprises a set of segments.

284. The component of Claim 251 wherein the set of segments comprises a set of lateral segments connected by a center line.

285. The component of Claim 251 wherein the recess comprises a formed recess.

286. The component of Claim 251 wherein the recess comprises an indentation.

287. The component of Claim 251 wherein the recess comprises a hole.

288. The component of Claim 251 wherein the recess comprises a wavy line.

289. The component of Claim 251 wherein the bottom comprises a generally flat bottom.

290. The component of Claim 251 wherein the set of walls comprises a set of flat tapered walls adjacent to the bottom.

291. The component of Claim 251 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.

292. The component of Claim 34 wherein fiber of the fiber panel is at least partially intermingled with the resin of the structure.

293. The component of Claim 251 wherein the fiber panel comprises a compression-formed fiber panel.

294. The component of Claim 251 further comprising a panel comprising the fiber panel; wherein the panel comprises at least one of (a) a resin; (b) a thermoplastic resin; (c) polypropylene; (d) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; (e) polycarbonate.

295. The component of Claim 251 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.FIP 25001 -PCT-US-02296. The component of Claim 251 further comprising a cover on the fiber panel; wherein the weakened area is not generally visible at the cover.

297. The component of Claim 251 comprising at least one of (a) a trim panel; (b) an instrument panel; (c) a door panel; (d) a pillar; (e) a composite structure comprising the structural substrate; (f) a composite structure comprising the structural substrate and a cover.

298. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an airbag door comprising:a structural substrate comprising a fiber panel:wherein the fiber panel comprises a base area and a weakened area;wherein the weakened area comprises a pre-weakened area;wherein the weakened area is configured to direct the formation of the airbag door at the weakened area of the fiber panel during deployment of the airbag.

299. The component of Claim 298 wherein the pre-weakened area is formed in a fiber mat; wherein the fiber mat is compression-formed into the fiber panel; wherein the preweakened area of the fiber mat is formed into the weakened area of the fiber panel.

300. A component for a vehicle interior configured to facilitate deployment of an airbag through an opening comprising:a composite structure comprising a structural substrate;wherein the structural substrate comprises a fiber panel comprising a base area and weakened area;wherein the fiber panel comprises a compression formed fiber panel;wherein the compression formed fiber panel is formed by compression forming of a fiber mat;wherein the weakened area in the fiber panel comprises a pre-weakened area;wherein the weakened area in the fiber panel is configured to facilitate formation of the opening for deployment of the airbag.

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