WO2025208028A1

WO2025208028A1 - Component for vehicle interior

Info

Publication number: WO2025208028A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/022016
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ching Fong; Garrett Lewis; Christopher Kring; Iris Wegner
Original assignee: Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co Ltd
Current assignee: Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co Ltd
Priority date: 2024-03-28
Filing date: 2025-03-28
Publication date: 2025-10-02
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-28

Abstract

A vehicle interior component configured to provide a user interface is disclosed. The component may comprise a composite structure comprising a base/panel and a cover and electrical/mechanical interface to connect cover to base. A material/ink applied at the interior surface of the cover may comprise electrically-conductive material and/or light-transmissive material to form a sensor arrangement providing a sensor. The user interface may comprise an input device such as an operator control/sensor and an output device such as illumination/light display at the cover. The user interface may comprise an image/icon; the image/icon may indicate the operator control/sensor. The interface may comprise an elastomeric conductor. The component may be configured to provide reduced visibility/concealment of the sensor arrangement at exterior surface of the cover in an off/inactive state. The sensor may be configured to detect touch and/or movement. The sensor arrangement may be formed by printing of applied material/ink at the cover.

Description

PATENT 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. 63/571,050 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed March 28, 2024.

FIELD

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

BACKGROUND

[0003] It is known to provide a component comprising a user interface system for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system.

[0004] It would be advantageous to provide a component for a vehicle interior with an improved composite structure configured to provide a user interface with an input device and/or an output device.

SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface comprising a composite structure; the composite structure may comprise a base and a cover and an interface between the cover and the base; the cover may comprise an exterior surface and an interior surface; the composite structure may comprise a material at the interior surface of the cover; the interface may be configured to connect the cover to the base; the interface may comprise an electrical interface and/or an mechanical interface; the user interface may comprise an input device at the exterior surface of the cover. The material may comprise a layer of material; the material may comprise a layer of applied material; the material may comprise a conductive material; the material may comprise an electrically-conductive material; the material may comprise a generally light-transmissive material; the material may comprise a generally semi-transparent material; the material may comprise an ink material; the ink material may comprise a conductive ink; the ink material may comprise a light-transmissive ink; the material may be configured to provide a sensor arrangement. The input device may comprise the sensor arrangement; the sensor arrangement may comprise a detector; the sensor arrangement may comprise a sensor; the sensor may be provided at a section of the sensor arrangement; the sensor arrangement may comprise a pattern; the pattern may be provided at a section of the sensor arrangement; the sensor arrangement may comprise an interface; the interface may be provided at a section of the sensor arrangement; the material may comprise an ink material comprising the sensor arrangement. The ink material may comprise an applied ink material; the applied ink material may be provided by a printing process; the ink material may comprise an applied light-transmissive ink material; the sensor arrangement may comprise a semi-transparent sensor arrangement; the sensor arrangement may comprise a light-transmissive sensor arrangement. The exterior surface of the cover may comprise a generally planar surface; the interior surface of the cover may comprise a generally planar surface; the exterior surface of the cover may comprise a generally planar surface and the interior surface of the cover may comprise a generally planar surface; the exterior surface of the cover may comprise a curved surface; the interior surface of the cover may comprise a curved surface; the interior surface of the cover may comprise a recessed section; the exterior surface of the cover may comprise a generally planar surface and the interior surface of the cover may comprise a recessed section; the cover may comprise a recessed section; the sensor arrangement may comprise a raised section configured to correspond to the recessed section of the cover; the recessed section of the cover may comprise a recess; the raised section of the sensor arrangement may comprise a projection; the cover may comprise a contour section; the sensor arrangement may comprise a contour section configured to correspond to the contour section of the cover; the contour section of the cover may comprise a recess; the contour section of the sensor arrangement may comprise a projection; the composite structure may comprise a circuit configured to operate the input device; the input device may comprise a sensor arrangement; the sensor arrangement may comprise the material. The user interface may comprise an output device at the exterior surface of the cover; the composite structure may comprise a light source configured to provide illumination for the user interface; the composite structure may comprise a light source configured to provide illumination for the output device of user interface. The composite structure may comprise an assembly; the base may comprise panel; the base may comprise a board; the base may comprise a circuit board; the base may comprise a circuit panel. The material may comprise at least one of an applied material and/or a conductive material and/or a conductive material and/or a light-transmissive material and/or a light-transmissive ink and/or a conductive ink and/or a sensor and/or a sensor grid and/or an applied conductive material and/or a material and/or a pad-material and/or a screenmaterial and/or a deposited material. The light source may comprise an LED and/or an LED array; the user interface may comprise the input device and an output device; the input device may comprise the sensor arrangement; the input device may comprise a sensor in the sensor arrangement; the input device may comprise an icon; the input device may comprise an output device comprising a light source. The sensor may comprise a capacitive touch sensor. The interface may comprise a mechanical interface and an electrical interface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an a sensor region and an interface region; the sensor arrangement may comprise a ground region and the sensor region; the composite structure may comprise a conductor between the cover and the base; the composite structure may comprise a conductor between the sensor arrangement and a circuit provided on the base; the conductor may comprise an elastomer material; the conductor may comprise a conductive elastomer material; the elastomer material may comprise a rubber material. The cover may comprise a light transmissive material; the cover may comprise a polycarbonate material; the cover may comprise a light-transmissive material and an under layer; the under layer may comprise an opaque material. The user interface may be configured to facilitate interaction with at least one vehicle system; the user interface may be powered by a power source; the cover may comprise a clear polycarbonate layer; the cover may comprise a polycarbonate inner layer; the cover may comprise a polycarbonate under layer; the composite structure may comprise a member comprising the conductor; the composite structure may comprise a structure separating the cover and the base; the cover may comprise a two layer polycarbonate. The material may comprise an applied material comprising a fluid; the fluid may comprise an ink; the applied material may comprise a conductive ink comprising metallic elements; the applied material may comprise a layer comprising an applied layer; the layer may comprise a light transmissive material; the layer may comprise a conductive material; the cover may comprise an opaque underlayer; the opaque underlayer may comprise an opening; the cover may comprise a generally transparent material; the cover may comprise a generally light transmissive material; the sensor arrangement may comprise a sensor layer; the sensor layer may comprise a sensor grid; the sensor layer may comprise a sensor pad; the sensor layer may comprise a sensor region; the sensor layer may comprise a sensor region configured to provide a sensor; the sensor layer may comprise a composite of a transparent and conductive layer and a intermediate layer; the sensor layer may be configured to present a graphic; the sensor layer may be configured to present an image; the sensor layer may be configured to provide an icon; the sensor layer may comprise a first conductive layer and a second opaque layer; the sensor layer may comprise a conductive layer and a diffuser layer; the cover may comprise a recess; the sensor layer may be configured to fit within the recess; the light source may be configured to provide a back light effect. The spacer may comprise an enclosure for the coupling. The circuit board may be configured to process a signal; the circuit board may be configured to control at least one vehicle system. The cover may be formed from a resin material; the cover may comprise a single layer; the cover may comprise a single material. The component may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material at the cover of the composite structure; the component may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material at the interior surface of the cover of the composite structure; the component may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material as a sensor arrangement at the cover of the composite structure; the component may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material on the interior surface of the cover of the composite structure; the component may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material as a sensor arrangement on the interior surface of the cover of the composite structure. The component may comprise at least one of a steering wheel and/or a console and/or (c) a floor console and/or (d) a center console and/or (e) an instrument panel and/or (f) a door panel and/or (g) a dashboard and/or (h) a display and/or (i) an arm rest and/or (j) a cockpit and/or (k) an overhead console. The sensor arrangement may comprise a pattern that may comprise a gap configured to facilitate capacitive sensing. The applied material may comprise a first applied ink layer and a second applied ink layer. The cover may comprise a plastic material. The cover may comprise an optical-quality plastic material. The cover may comprise at least one of a polycarbonate (PC) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS) and styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) etc. The cover may comprise a polycarbonate material. The input device may comprise an icon. The input device may comprise an icon to provide a switch. The input device may comprise a switch. The composite structure may comprise a member that may comprise a conductor. The composite structure may comprise a member that may comprise an elastomeric conductor. The elastomeric conductor may be provided at the interface with the sensor arrangement. The elastomeric conductor may be provided at the interface for the sensor of the sensor arrangement. The elastomeric conductor may be compressed at the interface with the sensor arrangement. The elastomeric conductor may be compressed at the interface with the circuit of the circuit board. The elastomeric conductor may be compressed at the interface with the trace on the circuit board. The elastomeric conductor may be compressed at the interface with the trace at the interior surface of cover. The elastomeric conductor may be compressed at the interface with the trace for the sensor arrangement at the interior surface of cover. The ink may be deposited by printing of light-transmissive pattern at the interior surface of the cover. The ink may be deposited by printing of light-transmissive pattern on a film at the interior surface of the cover. The ink may be deposited by printing of light-transmissive pattern on a thin film at the interior surface of the cover. The ink may be deposited by printing of light-transmissive pattern on a polyethylene di oxy thiophene (PEDOT) film at the interior surface of the cover. The film may comprise a thin plastic. The film may comprise a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheet. The ink may be deposited on the interior surface of the cover by at least one of screen printing and/or inkjet printing and/or pad printing and/or gravure printing and/or offset printing and/or spray printing and/or three-dimensional printing and/or transfer printing and/or stencil printing etc. The ink material may comprise an applied light-transmissive ink material. The ink material may comprise an applied ink that may comprise silver. The ink material may comprise an applied ink that may comprise nano silver particles. The ink material may comprise an applied ink that may comprise indium tin oxide (ITO). The ink material may comprise an applied ink that may comprise metallic particles.

[0006] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system comprising a composite structure; the composite structure may comprise a cover configured to present the user interface and a sensor arrangement configured to detect input at or adjacent to the cover; the user interface for the vehicle occupant may comprise an input device comprising the sensor arrangement and an output device comprising a light display from a light source. The cover may comprise an exterior surface and an interior surface; the exterior surface may comprise an outer surface and the interior surface may comprise an inner surface. The user interface may be presented at the exterior surface of the cover. The sensor arrangement may be configured to allow transmission of light from the light source to an exterior surface of the cover to present the user interface. The sensor arrangement may comprise a light-transmissive conductive material configured to facilitate an output signal comprising illumination and an input signal by detection. The user interface provided by the composite structure may be configured to provide an off/inactive state and an active state; the active state may comprise illumination by the light display; illumination by the light display may comprise presentation of an image and/or icon; presentation of the image may comprise data/information and/or a visual effect; presentation of the image may comprise an output signal comprising illumination. The user interface provided by the composite structure may be configured to provide a default state comprising the off/inactive state. The sensor arrangement may comprise a sensor configured to detect touch at the user interface; the sensor arrangement may comprise a sensor configured to detect a movement near the user interface; the sensor arrangement may be provided at an interior surface of the cover; the sensor arrangement may be provided on an interior surface of the cover; the sensor arrangement may comprise a material at the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise a material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise a material applied at the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an applied material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an ink on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an electrically conductive material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise a light-transmissive material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an electrically conductive applied material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise a light-transmissive applied material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an electrically conductive and light- transmissive material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an electrically conductive and light-transmissive applied material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an electrically conductive and light-transmissive applied ink material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement may comprise an ink applied at the interior surface; the ink may comprise an electrically-conductive material; the electrically-conductive material may comprise a light-transmissive material; the electrically- conductive material may comprise a semi-transparent material; the ink may comprise a fluorescent ink; the fluorescent ink may be configured to emit light when exposed to light; the fluorescent ink may be configured to emit light when exposed to UV light; the fluorescent ink may be configured to glow to facilitate inspection of the sensor arrangement; the ink may be at the interior surface of the cover; the ink may be on the interior surface of the cover; the ink may be deposited on the interior surface of the cover by at least one of screen printing and/or inkjet printing and/or (c) pad printing and/or (d) gravure printing and/or (e) offset printing and/or (f) spray printing and/or (g) three-dimensional printing. The sensor arrangement may comprise a contact region; the sensor arrangement may comprise an interface region; the sensor arrangement may comprise a ground mesh region; the sensor arrangement may comprise a conductive trace; the sensor arrangement may be configured to detect touch and/or proximity; the sensor arrangement may comprise the applied material; the applied material may comprise an ink configured to detect touch and/or proximity. The cover may comprise light-transmissive material; the cover may comprise a light-transmissive layer and a generally opaque layer; the generally opaque layer of the cover may comprise an light- transmissive section. The composite structure may be configured to present an image at the light-transmissive section; the image may comprise an icon; the image may be configured to be illuminated by the light source. The composite structure may be configured to provide a detector at the light-transmissive section; the detector may comprise a sensor; the composite structure may be configured to provide a sensor at the light-transmissive section; the sensor may comprise a touch sensor; the sensor may comprise a capacitive touch sensor; the sensor may comprise a detector; the sensor may comprise a region in the sensor arrangement; the sensor may comprise a section of applied material at the interior surface of the cover; the sensor may be configured to be actuated by a control system; the sensor may be coupled to a power source; the sensor may comprise an input device for the user interface; the sensor may be connected to the base; the sensor may be connected to the base by an interface; the sensor may be connected to the base by a conductor. The interface may comprise a conductor; the interface may comprise an electrical interface; the interface may be configured to connect the sensor to the control system. The cover may comprise a film at the under interior surface; the sensor arrangement may be provided on the film; the composite structure may comprise an applied material at the interior surface of the cover; the applied material may comprise the sensor arrangement. The composite structure may comprise an intermediate layer at the interior surface of the cover. The cover may comprise a curved surface; the interior surface of the cover may comprise a curved surface; the ink may be deposited on the curved surface by pad printing; the sensor arrangement may comprise a film comprising light transmissive conductive ink; the film may comprise a thin plastic; the film may comprise a PET sheet; the light transmissive conductive ink may be on the film. The sensor arrangement may comprise at least one of (a) an array and/or a (b) grid and/or (c) a foil and/or (d) a panel and/or (e) a touch panel and/or (f) a flexible panel and/or (g) a detector and/or (h) a proximity detector and/or (i) a capacitive touch panel and/or (j) a pressure sensitive panel and/or (k) a sensor arrangement grid and/or (1) a sensor arrangement foil and/or (m) a capacitive sensor arrangement foil and/or (n) a touch sensor arrangement and/or (o) a proximity sensor arrangement. The composite structure may comprise a base; the base may comprise a panel; the panel may comprise a circuit; the panel may comprise a circuit panel; the panel may comprise a circuit board. The composite structure may comprise an interface between the cover and the base; the interface may comprise a mechanical interface; the interface may comprise an electrical interface; the interface may comprise a mechanical interface and an electrical interface; the interface may comprise a conductor; the conductor may comprise a connector; the conductor may be configured to electrically connect the sensor arrangement to the circuit board; the conductor may be configured to transmit input at the user interface to the circuit board; the conductor may comprise a conductive material; the conductor may comprise a conductive elastomeric material. The interface may comprise a coupling; the coupling may be configured to electrically connect the sensor arrangement to the circuit board; the coupling may be configured to transmit input at the user interface to the circuit board; the coupling may comprise a conductive material; the coupling may comprise a conductive elastomeric material; the composite structure may comprise a structure between the cover and the circuit panel. The composite structure may comprise a structure between the cover and a base; the composite structure may comprise a member between the cover and the circuit panel; the component may comprise a structure between the sensor arrangement of the cover and the circuit panel; the structure may comprise a member; the structure may comprise a spacer; the structure may comprise a member and a conductor; the structure may be coupled to the cover at an interface; the structure may be coupled to the circuit panel at an interface; the structure may comprise a spacer between the sensor arrangement and the circuit panel; the spacer may comprise an enclosure for the conductor. The circuit board may comprise a system configured to process a signal; the circuit board may be configured to control at least one vehicle system. The cover may be formed from a polycarbonate; the cover may be formed from a resin material; the cover may comprise a single layer; the cover may comprise a single material. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a steering wheel and/or (b) a console and/or (c) a floor console and/or (d) a center console and/or (e) an instrument panel and/or (f) a door panel and/or (g) a dashboard and/or (h) a display and/or (i) an arm rest and/or (j) a cockpit and/or (k) an overhead console.

[0007] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system comprising a user interface system; the user interface system may comprise a cover configured to present the user interface for the vehicle occupant and a sensor/sensor arrangement configured to detect input from the vehicle occupant at or adjacent to the cover; the user interface for the vehicle occupant may comprise a light display from a light source. The sensor may be configured to allow transmission of light from at least one light source to an outer surface of the cover to present the user interface. The sensor may comprise a transparent conductive material configured to facilitate backlighting and touch sensing. The user interface system may be configured for a default or off/inactive state and an active state with the light display comprising an image to provide data/information or visual effect by illumination for the vehicle occupant. The sensor may be configured to sense touch at the user interface. The sensor may be configured to sense a gesture near the user interface. The sensor may comprise ink on an inner surface of the cover. The ink may comprise an electrically conductive material. The electrically conductive material may be configured to transmit light. The electrically conductive material may comprise a transparent material. The ink may comprise a UV fluorescent ink. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow when exposed to a UV light. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow to facilitate inspection of the sensor. The ink may be on the inner surface of the cover. The ink may be deposited on the inner surface of the cover by at least one of (a) screen printing; (b) inkjet printing; (c) pad printing; (d) gravure printing; (e) offset printing. The ink may comprise a conductive trace configured to sense touch and/or proximity. The inner surface of the cover may comprise a curved surface. The ink may be deposited on the curved surface by pad printing. The sensor may comprise a film comprising light transmissive conductive ink. The film may comprise a thin plastic. The film may comprise a PET sheet. The light transmissive conductive ink may be on the film. The sensor may comprise at least one of (a) an array and/or (b) a grid and/or (c) a foil and/or (d) a panel and/or (e) a touch panel and/or (f) a flexible panel and/or (g) a detector and/or (h) a proximity detector and/or (i) a capacitive touch panel and/or (j) a pressure sensitive panel and/or (k) a sensor grid and/or (1) a sensor foil and/or (m) a capacitive sensor foil and/or (n) a touch sensor and/or (o) a proximity sensor. The component may comprise a circuit board. The component may comprise a coupling/conductor. The coupling may be configured to electrically connect the sensor to the circuit board. The coupling may be configured to transmit input at the user interface to the circuit board. The coupling may comprise a conductive material. The coupling may comprise a conductive rubber material. The component may comprise a spacer/ structure between the sensor and the circuit board. The spacer may comprise an enclosure for the coupling. The circuit board may be configured to process a signal. The circuit board may be configured to control the at least one vehicle system. The cover may be formed from a resin material. The cover may comprise a single layer. The cover may comprise a single material. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a steering wheel; (b) a console; (c) a floor console; (d) a center console; (e) an instrument panel; (f) a door panel; (g) a dashboard; (h) a display; (i) an arm rest; (j) a cockpit.

[0008] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system comprising a user interface system comprising (a) a cover configured to present the user interface for the vehicle occupant; and (b) a sensor configured to detect input from the vehicle occupant at or adjacent to the cover. The user interface for the vehicle occupant may comprise a light display from a light source. The sensor may be configured to allow transmission of light from the at least one light source to an outer surface of the cover to present the user interface. The sensor may comprise a transparent conductive material configured to facilitate backlighting and touch sensing. The user interface system may be configured for (a) a default or off/inactive state and (b) an active state with the light display comprising an image to provide data/information or visual effect by illumination for the vehicle occupant. The sensor may be configured to sense touch at the user interface. The sensor may be configured to sense a gesture near the user interface. The sensor may comprise ink on an inner surface of the cover. The ink may comprise an electrically conductive material. The electrically conductive material may be configured to transmit light. The electrically conductive material may comprise a transparent material. The ink may comprise a UV fluorescent ink. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow when exposed to a UV light. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow to facilitate inspection of the sensor. The ink may be printed on the inner surface of the cover. The ink may be deposited on the inner surface of the cover by at least one of (a) screen printing; (b) inkjet printing; (c) pad printing; (d) gravure printing; (e) offset printing. The ink may comprise a conductive trace configured to sense touch and/or proximity. The inner surface of the cover may comprise a curved surface. The ink may be deposited on the curved surface by pad printing. The sensor may comprise a film comprising light transmissive conductive ink. The film may comprise a thin plastic. The film may comprise a PET sheet. The light transmissive conductive ink may be printed on the film. The sensor may comprise at least one of (a) an array, (b) a grid, (c) a foil, (d) a panel, (e) a touch panel, (f) a flexible panel, (g) a detector, (h) a proximity detector, (i) a capacitive touch panel, (j) a pressure sensitive panel, (k) a sensor grid, (1) a sensor foil, (m) a capacitive sensor foil, (n) a touch sensor, (o) a proximity sensor. The component may comprise a printed circuit board. The component may comprise a coupling. The coupling may be configured to electrically connect the sensor to the printed circuit board. The coupling may be configured to transmit input at the user interface to the printed circuit board. The coupling may comprise a conductive material. The coupling may comprise a conductive rubber material. The component may comprise a spacer between the sensor and the printed circuit board. The spacer may comprise an enclosure for the coupling. The printed circuit board may be configured to process a signal. The printed circuit board may be configured to control the at least one vehicle system. The cover may be formed from a resin material. The cover may comprise a single layer. The cover may comprise a single material. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a steering wheel; (b) a console; (c) a floor console; (d) a center console; (e) an instrument panel; (f) a door panel; (g) a dashboard; (h) a display; (i) an arm rest; (j) a cockpit.

FIGURES

[0009] FIGURE 1 A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] FIGURE IB and 1C are schematic cutaway views of a vehicle showing an interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] FIGURES 2A through 2D are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIGURES 3A and 3C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIGURE 3B is a schematic exploded view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIGURE 3D is a schematic section view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIGURE 4A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIGURE 4B is a schematic exploded view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIGURE 5A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIGURE 5B is a schematic exploded view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIGURE 6A is a schematic plan view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIGURE 6B is a schematic detail view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIGURES 7A and 7B are schematic perspective views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIGURE 7C is a schematic detail view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIGURE 8A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURE 8B is a schematic exploded view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment. [0025] FIGURES 8C through 8E are schematic detail views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIGURE 9A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURE 9B is a schematic exploded view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURE 9C is a schematic section view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURE 10A is a schematic perspective view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIGURE 10B is a schematic exploded view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURES 10C and 10D are schematic detail views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIGURES 11 A through 11C are schematic section views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] FIGURES 12A and 12C are schematic perspective views of a panel of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0034] FIGURE 12B is a schematic plan view of a panel of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] FIGURE 12D is a schematic section view of a panel of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] FIGURES 13 A and 13B are schematic plan views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

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

[0038] FIGURES 15A and 15B are schematic plan views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] FIGURES 16A and 16B are schematic perspective views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIGURES 17 and 18 are schematic plan views of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] FIGURE 19 is a schematic section view of a composite structure of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment. [0042] FIGURES 20A and 20B are schematic block diagrams for operation of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] FIGURES 21 A through 21E are schematic perspective views of a process for producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] FIGURES 22A through 22G are schematic perspective views of a process for producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] FIGURES 23A through 23C are schematic perspective views of a process for producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] FIGURES 24A through 24C are schematic flow diagrams of a process for producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] FIGURES 25A through 25C are schematic flow diagrams of a process for producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] FIGURES 26A through 26C are schematic flow diagrams of a process for producing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION

[0049] Referring to FIGURES 1 A-1C and 2A-2D, a vehicle V is shown with a vehicle interior VI comprising components including seat assembly SZ, instrument panel IP, door panel DP with armrest AR, steering wheel SW, a console shown as floor console FC and overhead console OHC and/or other trim/panels.

[0050] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 1C, 2A-2D, 3A-3D and 4A-4B, the component C may comprise a composite structure/user interface system CS configured to provide a user interface UI to provide an input device such as an operator control OC and/or an output device such as a light display LD connected to a control system and power source and to one or more vehicle systems of the vehicle; as indicated schematically, the composite structure may comprise a cover shown as a semi-transparent cover/panel T and a base shown as a circuit panel CB with a structure/member shown as spacer SR; the input device of the user interface UI may be configured to actuate the operator control OC by detection of touch/gesture at a sensor region SNx of a sensor arrangement SN at cover T indicated by an image/icon IC at a cover T and connected to a base CB comprising a circuit through a conductor CD to a control system; the output device of the user interface UI may be configured to provide illumination of an image/icon IC at a light display LD at cover T from a light source LS comprising an LED/LED array and/or a light guide LG operated by a light system and/or control system; the cover T with sensor arrangement SN may be connected to the circuit panel/base CB through the structure/member SR with conductor/coupling CD at an interface NT comprising a mechanical interface NTm and electrical interface NTe. See also FIGURES 11 A- 11C, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B, 16A-16B and 20A-20B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3 A-3D and 4A-4B, the cover T with sensor arrangement SN of the composite structure CS may comprise a generally planar shape and/or a contoured/curved shape; the sensor arrangement SN may be formed by application of a conductive material and/or light-transmissive material such as an ink material NK at the interior surface of the cover T to conform to the shape/contour of the cover T. See also FIGURES IC, 2A-2D, 5A- 5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 21 A-21E, 22A-22G and 23A-23C. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3D, 4A-4B, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, the composite structure/user interface system CS may comprise a cover T with sensor arrangement SN and sensor SNx configured to present a visual effect for user interface UI that generally conceals the sensor arrangement SN within cover T in an inactive state (such as in ambient condition with no illumination, decorative effect, deadfront effect, etc.) and that presents the sensor SNx with image/icon IC at the exterior surface of cover T in an active state (such as with illumination from light source LS with LED light or light guide LG through the image/icon IC and/or light display LD). See also FIGURES 2A-2D, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 8A-8E, 9A- 9C, 10A-10D, 17, 18 and 19.

[0051] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3 A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 8A- 8E, 9A-9C and 10A-10B, the composite structure CS comprises cover T attached to circuit panel/base CB by structure/member SR; cover T comprises sensor arrangement SN as an applied material NK at the interior surface providing a sensor/ sensor region SNx and an interface region SNt for electrical connectivity at an interface NT/NTe to the circuit panel/base CB; sensor/detector SNx is provided at the user interface UI at the exterior surface of cover T as an input device such as an operator control OC (e.g. button, switch, detector, etc.) that may be indicated at an image/icon IC and/or light display LD; output device such as image/icon IC and/or light display LD of user interface UI at cover T may be configured to provide for interaction and/or for communication instrumentation, information, data, indicia, etc. from the light system and/or control system for vehicle systems, network connectivity, etc. See also FIGURES IC, 2A-2D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3D, 4A-4B, 8A-8E, 10A-10D, 17 and 18, the composite structure CS may comprise a cover T comprising a sensor arrangement SN with an integrated sensor region SNx and interface region SNt formed at the interior surface of cover T that may comprise a cover layer TX (e.g. for visual effect, etc.); as indicated schematically in FIGURES 9A-9C and 19, the composite structure CS may comprise a cover T comprising a sensor arrangement SN with a contour/shape and comprising a cover underlayer TL (such as a color/opaque/black layer under the semi-transparent/light-transmissive layer of cover T) configured for fit of an image/icon section IC and an intermediate layer NL (such as an applied layer, opaque material, etc.) to provide a visual effect of image/icon IC (e.g. for illumination, touch/feel, etc.) at the exterior surface of cover for sensor region SNx of sensor arrangement SN that may comprise light display LD actuated by light source LS/LED on base CB. See also FIGURES 12A-12D. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 9A-9C, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, illumination for the light display LD and/or image/icon IC for output device of user interface UI at exterior surface of cover T of composite structure CS may be provided from base CB by a light source LS comprising an LED/lamp (FIGURES 9A-9C) and/or an LED array/panel (FIGURES 14 and 15A-15B) and/or a light guide LG (FIGURES 16A-16B) (e.g. side light, backlight, etc.). See also FIGURES 2C, 3C-3D, 9C and 19 (illumination effects). [0052] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11A-11C, 17, 18 and 19, the composite structure CS may comprise an interface NT comprising a mechanical interface NTm to assemble/attach cover T to base CB through structure/member SR such as with fasteners FS shown as bolts and an electrical interface NTe to electrically connect/couple the sensor arrangement SN at cover T to the circuit/control system of base CB through a conductor CD shown as an electrically-conductive elastomeric member compressed into connection at an interface section SNt of sensor arrangement SN and to an interface section NT on base CB; as indicated schematically, conductor CD may be enclosed within structure/member SR. See also FIGURES 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 8A-8E, 10A-10D, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B.

[0053] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 21A-21E, 22A-22G, 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A-26C, the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing a material/ink NK at the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material NK at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material NK as a sensor arrangement SN at the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material NK on the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material NK as a sensor arrangement SN on the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure CS.

[0054] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 21A-21E, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A, the sensor arrangement SN at cover T of component C may be formed with a tool FT by a process comprising the step of screen printing the material NK through a screen FTz with an applicator FTx at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure.

[0055] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 22A-22G, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26B, the sensor arrangement SN at cover T of component C may be formed with a tool FT by a process comprising the step of pad printing the material NK at a fixture FTz with an applicator shown as pad FTx at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure; the sensor arrangement SN formed from applied material NK on cover T may comprise a contour/curve shape of the cover T.

[0056] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 23 A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26C, t the sensor arrangement SN at cover T of component C may be formed with a tool FT by a process comprising the step of deposition printing (e.g. spray printing, deposited material printing, three-dimensional/3D printing, etc.) of the material NK at a fixture FTz with an applicator shown as deposit! on/spray outlet FTx at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure; the sensor arrangement SN formed from applied material NK on cover T may comprise a contour/curve shape of the cover T.

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 1B-1C and 2A-2D, the component C may comprise at least one of a steering wheel and/or a console and/or a floor console and/or a center console and/or an instrument panel and/or a door panel and/or a dashboard and/or a display and/or an arm rest and/or a cockpit and/or an overhead console and/or a seat assembly and/or a trim panel. See also FIGURES 20A-20B.

Exemplary Embodiments - A

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, a component C for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface UI may comprise a composite structure CS; the composite structure CS may comprise a base shown as panel/circuit panel CB and a cover T and an interface NT between the cover T and the base CB; the cover T may comprise an exterior surface and an interior surface; the composite structure CS may comprise a material at the interior surface of the cover T; the interface NT may be configured to connect the cover T to the base CB; the interface NT may comprise an electrical interface NTe and/or an mechanical interface NTm; the user interface UI may comprise an input device at the exterior surface TX of the cover T.

[0058] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 21A-21E, 22A-22G, 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A-26C, the material may comprise a layer of deposited material NK; the material may comprise a layer of applied material NK; the material may comprise a conductive material; the material may comprise an electrically-conductive material; the material may comprise a generally light-transmissive material; the material may comprise a generally semi-transparent material; the material may comprise an ink material NK; the ink material NK may comprise a conductive ink; the ink material NK may comprise a light- transmissive ink; the material may be configured to provide a sensor arrangement SN. The material may comprise at least one of an applied material and/or a conductive material and/or a conductive material and/or a light-transmissive material and/or a light-transmissive ink and/or a conductive ink and/or a sensor SNx and/or a sensor grid SN and/or an applied conductive material and/or a material and/or a pad-material and/or a screen-material and/or a deposited material. The material may comprise an applied material NK comprising a fluid; the fluid may comprise an ink; the applied material NK may comprise a conductive ink comprising metallic elements; the applied material NK may comprise a layer comprising an applied layer; the layer may comprise a light transmissive material; the layer may comprise a conductive material; the cover T may comprise an opaque underlayer; the opaque underlayer may comprise an opening; the cover T may comprise a generally transparent material; the cover T may comprise a generally light transmissive material. As indicated schematically, the ink material NK may comprise an applied ink material NK; the applied ink material NK may be provided by a printing process; the ink material NK may comprise an applied light- transmissive ink material NK; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a semi-transparent sensor arrangement SN; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a light-transmissive sensor arrangement SN.

[0059] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3 A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A- 7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, the input device may comprise the sensor arrangement SN; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a detector SNx; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a sensor SNx; the sensor SNx may be provided at a section of the sensor arrangement SN; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a pattern; the pattern may be provided at a section of the sensor arrangement SN; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an interface NT; the interface NT may be provided at a section of the sensor arrangement SN; the material may comprise an ink material NK comprising the sensor arrangement SN. The sensor arrangement SN may comprise a sensor layer; the sensor layer may comprise a sensor grid SN; the sensor layer may comprise a sensor pad SNx; the sensor layer may comprise a sensor region SNx; the sensor layer SN may comprise a sensor region SNx configured to provide a sensor SNx; the sensor layer SN may comprise a composite of a transparent and conductive layer and a intermediate layer; the sensor layer SN may be configured to present a graphic; the sensor layer SN may be configured to present an image IC; the sensor layer SN may be configured to provide an icon IC; the sensor layer SN may comprise a first conductive layer and a second opaque layer; the sensor layer SN may comprise a conductive layer and a diffuser layer; the cover T may comprise a recess; the sensor layer SN may be configured to fit within the recess; the light source may be configured to provide a back light effect.

[0060] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3 A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A- 7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, the exterior surface of the cover T may comprise a generally planar surface and/or a contoured/curved surface and/or an exterior layer TX; the interior surface of the cover T may comprise a generally planar surface; the exterior surface of the cover T may comprise a generally planar surface and the interior surface of the cover T may comprise a generally planar surface; the exterior surface of the cover T may comprise a curved surface; the interior surface of the cover T may comprise a curved surface; the interior surface of the cover T may comprise a recessed section; the exterior surface of the cover T may comprise a generally planar surface and the interior surface of the cover T may comprise a recessed section; the cover T may comprise a recessed section; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a raised section configured to correspond to the recessed section of the cover T; the recessed section of the cover T may comprise a recess; the raised section of the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a projection; the cover T may comprise a contour section; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a contour section configured to correspond to the contour section of the cover T; the contour section of the cover T may comprise a recess; the contour section of the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a projection; the composite structure CS may comprise a circuit such as shown on a panel/board CB configured to operate the input device; the input device may comprise a sensor arrangement SN; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise the material NK.

[0061] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3 A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A- 7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, the user interface UI may comprise an output device at the exterior surface of the cover T; the composite structure CS may comprise a light source LS configured to provide illumination for the user interface UI; the composite structure CS may comprise a light source LS configured to provide illumination for the output device of user interface UI. The light source may comprise an LED and/or an LED array; the user interface UI may comprise the input device and an output device; the input device may comprise the sensor arrangement SN; the input device may comprise a sensor SNx in the sensor arrangement SN; the input device may comprise an icon IC; the input device may comprise an output device comprising a light source. The sensor SNx may comprise a capacitive touch sensor. The user interface UI may be configured to facilitate interaction with at least one vehicle system; the user interface UI may be powered by a power source.

[0062] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11 A-l IC, the interface NT may comprise a mechanical interface NTm and an electrical interface NTe; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an a sensor region SNx and an interface region NT; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a ground region and the sensor region SNx; the composite structure CS may comprise a conductor CD between the cover T and the base CB; the composite structure CS may comprise a conductor CD between the sensor arrangement SN and a circuit provided on the base CB; the conductor CD may comprise an elastomer material; the conductor CD may comprise a conductive elastomer material; the elastomer material may comprise a rubber material. The conductor CD may comprise a coupling.

[0063] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3 A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A- 7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 11A-11C, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, the composite structure CS may comprise an assembly; the base may comprise panel CB; the base CB may comprise a board; the base CB may comprise a circuit board; the base CB may comprise a circuit panel. The structure/spacer SR may comprise an enclosure for the conductor/coupling CD. The circuit board may be configured to process a signal; the circuit board may be configured to control at least one vehicle system. The cover T may comprise a light transmissive material; the cover T may comprise a polycarbonate material; the cover T may comprise a light-transmissive material and an underlayer such as intermediate layer NL; the underlayer may comprise an opaque material. The cover T may be formed from a resin material; the cover T may comprise a single layer; the cover T may comprise a single material. The cover T may comprise a clear polycarbonate layer; the cover T may comprise a polycarbonate inner layer; the cover T may comprise a polycarbonate underlayer such as intermediate layer NL; the composite structure CS may comprise a member SR comprising the conductor CD; the composite structure CS may comprise a structure separating the cover T and the base CB; the cover T may comprise a two layer configuration such as a two-layer polycarbonate construction (e.g. two molded/over-molded layers of material for the cover assembly of T and TL). See FIGURES 9A-9C and 19.

[0064] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 9A-9C and 19, the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a pattern that may comprise a gap configured to facilitate capacitive sensing; he applied material NK may comprise a first applied ink layer and a second applied ink layer. See also FIGURE 25C.

[0065] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the cover T may comprise a plastic material. The cover may comprise an optical-quality plastic material. The cover may comprise at least one of a polycarbonate (PC) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and poly carbonate/ acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS) and styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) etc. The cover may comprise a polycarbonate material.

[0066] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3 A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A- 7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, the input device may comprise an icon IC. The input device may comprise an icon IC configured to provide an operator control OC such as a switch. The input device may comprise a switch. The composite structure CS may comprise a member SR that may comprise a conductor CD. The composite structure CS may comprise a member SR that may comprise an elastomeric conductor CD. The elastomeric conductor CD may be provided at the interface SNe/NT with the sensor arrangement SN. The elastomeric conductor CD may be provided at the interface SNe/NT for the sensor SNx of the sensor arrangement SN. The elastomeric conductor CD may be compressed at the interface NT with the sensor arrangement SN. The elastomeric conductor CD may be compressed at the interface NT with the circuit of the circuit board. The elastomeric conductor CD may be compressed at the interface NT with the trace on the circuit board. The elastomeric conductor CD may be compressed at the interface NT with the trace at the interior surface of cover T. The elastomeric conductor CD may be compressed at the interface NT with the trace for the sensor arrangement SN at the interior surface of cover T.

[0067] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 13A-13B, 16A-16B, 21A-21E, 22A-22G, 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A-26C, the ink/ink material NK may be deposited by printing of light-transmissive pattern for sensor grid SN at the interior surface of the cover T.. The ink may be deposited on the interior surface of the cover T by at least one of screen printing and/or inkjet printing and/or pad printing and/or gravure printing and/or offset printing and/or spray printing and/or three-dimensional printing and/or transfer printing and/or stencil printing etc. The ink material NK may comprise an applied light-transmissive ink material NK. The ink material NK may comprise an applied ink that may comprise silver.

The ink material NK may comprise an applied ink that may comprise nano silver particles.

The ink material NK may comprise an applied ink that may comprise indium tin oxide (ITO).

The ink material NK may comprise an applied ink that may comprise metallic particles.

[0068] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 19, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A-26C, the material/ink NK for sensor arrangement SN may be deposited by printing of light- transmissive pattern on a film TF at the interior surface of the cover T. The ink may be deposited by printing of light-transmissive pattern on a thin film at the interior surface of the cover T. The ink may be deposited by printing of light-transmissive pattern on a polyethylene di oxy thiophene (PEDOT) film at the interior surface of the cover T. The film may comprise a thin plastic. The film may comprise a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheet

[0069] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 21A-21E, 22A-22G, 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A-26C, the sensor arrangement SN at the cover T of the composite structure CS of the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material at the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material as a sensor arrangement SN at the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material on the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure CS; the component C may be formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material as a sensor arrangement SN on the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure CS. [0070] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 21A-21E, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A, the sensor arrangement SN at cover T of component C may be formed with a tool FT by a process comprising the step of screen printing the material NK through a screen FTz with an applicator FTx at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure.

[0071] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 22A-22G, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26B, the sensor arrangement SN at cover T of component C may be formed with a tool FT by a process comprising the step of pad printing the material NK at a fixture FTz with an applicator shown as pad FTx at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure. [0072] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26C, the sensor arrangement SN at cover T of component C may be formed with a tool FT by a process comprising the step of deposition printing (e.g. three-dimensional/3D printing) the material NK at a fixture FTz with an applicator shown as deposition/spray outlet FTx at the interior surface of the cover T of the composite structure.

[0073] The component C may comprise at least one of (a) a steering wheel and/or (b) a console and/or (c) a floor console and/or (d) a center console and/or (e) an instrument panel and/or (f) a door panel and/or (g) a dashboard and/or (h) a display and/or (i) an arm rest and/or (j) a cockpit and/or (k) an overhead console.

Exemplary Embodiments - B

[0074] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, a component C for a vehicle interior VI configured to provide a user interface UI for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system may comprise a composite structure CS; the composite structure CS may comprise a cover T configured to present the user interface UI and a sensor arrangement SN configured to detect input at or adjacent to the cover T; the user interface UI for the vehicle occupant may comprise an input device comprising the sensor arrangement SN and an output device comprising a light display LD from a light source. The cover T may comprise an exterior surface and an interior surface; the exterior surface may comprise an outer surface and the interior surface may comprise an inner surface. The user interface UI may be presented at the exterior surface of the cover T. The sensor arrangement SN may be configured to allow transmission of light from the light source to an exterior surface of the cover T to present the user interface UI. The sensor arrangement SN may comprise a light-transmissive conductive material configured to facilitate an output signal comprising illumination and an input signal by detection.

[0075] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 1C and 2A-2D, the user interface UI provided by the composite structure CS may be configured to provide an off/inactive state and an active state; the active state may comprise illumination by the light display LD; illumination by the light display LD may comprise presentation of an image IC and/or icon; presentation of the image IC may comprise data/information and/or a visual effect; presentation of the image IC may comprise an output signal comprising illumination. See also FIGURES 3A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B. The user interface UI provided by the composite structure CS may be configured to provide a default state comprising the off/inactive state. The sensor arrangement SN may comprise a sensor SNx configured to detect touch at the user interface UI; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a sensor SNx configured to detect a movement near the user interface UI; the sensor arrangement SN may be provided at an interior surface of the cover T; the sensor arrangement SN may be provided on an interior surface of the cover T; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a material at the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a material applied at the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an applied material NK on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an ink on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an electrically conductive material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a light-transmissive material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an electrically conductive applied material NK on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a light-transmissive applied material NK on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an electrically conductive and light-transmissive material on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an electrically conductive and light-transmissive applied material NK on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an electrically conductive and light-transmissive applied ink material NK on the interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an ink applied at the interior surface; the ink may comprise an electrically- conductive material; the electrically-conductive material may comprise a light-transmissive material; the electrically-conductive material may comprise a semi-transparent material; the ink may comprise a fluorescent ink; the fluorescent ink may be configured to emit light when exposed to light; the fluorescent ink may be configured to emit light when exposed to ultraviolet/UV light; the fluorescent ink may be configured to glow to facilitate inspection of the sensor arrangement SN; the ink may be at the interior surface of the cover T; the ink may be on the interior surface of the cover T; the ink may be deposited on the interior surface of the cover T by at least one of screen printing and/or inkjet printing and/or (c) pad printing and/or (d) gravure printing and/or (e) offset printing and/or (f) spray printing and/or (g) three- dimensional printing.

[0076] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3D and 4A-4B, 9A-9C, 13A-13B and 16A-16B, the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a contact region SNx for detection; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise an interface region SNx/NT for interconnection; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a ground mesh region; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a conductive trace; the sensor arrangement SN may be configured to detect touch and/or proximity; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise the applied material NK; the applied material may comprise an ink configured to facilitate detection of touch and/or proximity. The cover T may comprise light-transmissive material; the cover T may comprise a light-transmissive layer and a generally opaque layer; the generally opaque layer of the cover T may comprise a light-transmissive section.

[0077] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3 A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A- 7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, the composite structure CS may be configured to present an image IC at the light-transmissive section; the image IC may comprise an icon IC; the image IC may be configured to be illuminated by the light source LS. The composite structure CS may be configured to provide a detector at the light- transmissive section; the detector may comprise a sensor SNx; the composite structure CS may be configured to provide a sensor SNx at the light-transmissive section; the sensor SNx may comprise a touch sensor; the sensor SNx may comprise a capacitive touch sensor; the sensor SNx may comprise a detector; the sensor SNx may comprise a region in the sensor arrangement SN; the sensor SNx may comprise a section of applied material NK at the interior surface of the cover T; the sensor SNx may be configured to be actuated by a control system; the sensor SNx may be coupled to a power source; the sensor SNx may comprise an input device for the user interface UI; the sensor SNx may be connected to the base CB; the sensor SNx may be connected to the base CB by an interface NT; the sensor SNx may be connected to the base CB by a conductor CD.

[0078] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11 A-l IC, the interface NT may comprise a conductor CD; the interface NT may comprise an electrical interface NTe; the interface NT may be configured to connect the sensor SNx to the control system.

[0079] As indicated schematically in FIGURE 18, the cover T may comprise a film TF at the under interior surface; the sensor arrangement SN may be provided on the film TF; the composite structure CS may comprise an applied material NK at the interior surface of the cover T; the applied material NK may comprise the sensor arrangement SN. The composite structure CS may comprise an intermediate layer NL at the interior surface of the cover T. The cover T may comprise a curved surface; the interior surface of the cover T may comprise a curved surface; the ink NK may be deposited on the curved surface by pad printing; the sensor arrangement SN may comprise a film TF comprising light transmissive conductive ink; the film may comprise a thin plastic; the film may comprise a PET sheet; the light transmissive conductive ink may be applied to/on the film.

[0080] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the sensor arrangement SN may comprise at least one of (a) an array and/or a (b) grid and/or (c) a foil and/or (d) a panel and/or (e) a touch panel and/or (f) a flexible panel and/or (g) a detector and/or (h) a proximity detector and/or (i) a capacitive touch panel and/or (j) a pressure sensitive panel and/or (k) a sensor arrangement grid and/or (1) a sensor arrangement SN foil and/or (m) a capacitive sensor arrangement foil and/or (n) a touch sensor arrangement and/or (o) a proximity sensor arrangement.

[0081] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the composite structure CS may comprise a base CB; the base may comprise a panel CB; the panel may comprise a circuit; the panel may comprise a circuit panel CB; the panel may comprise a circuit board; the circuit board may comprise a system such as a control configured to process a signal; the circuit board may be configured to control the at least one vehicle system. The composite structure CS may comprise an interface NT between the cover T and the base CB; the interface NT may comprise a mechanical interface NTm; the interface NT may comprise an electrical interface NTe; the interface NT may comprise a mechanical interface NTm and an electrical interface NTe; the interface NT may comprise a conductor CD; the conductor CD may comprise a connector; the conductor CD may be configured to electrically connect the sensor arrangement SN to the circuit board; the conductor CD may be configured to transmit input at the user interface UI to the circuit board; the conductor CD may comprise a conductive material; the conductor CD may comprise a conductive elastomeric material. [0082] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11 A-l 1C, the interface NT may comprise a conductor CD comprising a coupling; the coupling may be configured to electrically connect the sensor arrangement SN to the circuit board CB; the conductor/coupling CD may be configured to transmit input at the user interface UI to the circuit board CB; the coupling CD may comprise a conductive material NK; the coupling CD may comprise a conductive elastomeric material; the composite structure CS may comprise a structure between the cover T and the circuit panel CB.

[0083] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 11 A-l 1C, the composite structure CS may comprise a structure between the cover T and a base CB; the composite structure CS may comprise a member SR between the cover T and the circuit panel CB; the component C may comprise a structure SR between the sensor arrangement SN of the cover T and the circuit panel CB; the structure may comprise a member SR; the structure may comprise a spacer SR; the structure may comprise a member SR and a conductor CD; the structure SR may enclose the conductor CD; the structure SR may be coupled to the cover T at an interface NT with fasteners FS shown as bolts; the structure may be coupled to the circuit panel CB at an interface NT comprising a mechanical interface NTm and/or electrical interface NTe; the structure may comprise a spacer SR between the sensor arrangement SN and the circuit panel CB; the spacer SR may comprise an enclosure for the conductor CD. The cover T may be formed from a polycarbonate; the cover T may be formed from a resin material; the cover T may comprise a single layer; the cover T may comprise a single material.

[0084] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, a vehicle interior component configured to provide a user interface may comprise a composite structure comprising a base/panel and a cover and electrical/mechanical interface to connect cover to base. A material/ink applied at the interior surface of the cover may comprise electrically-conductive material and/or light- transmissive material to form a sensor arrangement providing a sensor. The user interface may comprise an input device such as an operator control/sensor and an output device such as illumination/light display at the cover. The user interface may comprise an image/icon; the image/icon may indicate the operator control/sensor. The interface may comprise an elastomeric conductor. The component may be configured to provide reduced visibility/concealment of the sensor arrangement at exterior surface of the cover in an off/inactive state. The sensor may be configured to detect touch and/or movement. The sensor arrangement may be formed by printing of applied material/ink at the cover.

Exemplary Embodiments - C

[0085] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2D, 3A-3D, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7C, 8A-8D, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 13A-13B, 14, 15A-15B and 16A-16B, a component C for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface UI for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system may comprise a user interface system UUCS; the user interface system UUCS may comprise a cover T configured to present the user interface UI for the vehicle occupant and a sensor SNx/sensor arrangement SN configured to detect input from the vehicle occupant at or adjacent to the cover T; the user interface UI for the vehicle occupant may comprise a light display LD from a light source of a light system as an output device.

[0086] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the sensor arrangement SN with sensor SNx may be configured to allow transmission of light from the at least one light source LS to an exterior surface and/or an outer surface TX (e.g. additional layer for cover assembly) of the cover T to present the user interface UI; sensor arrangement SN with sensor SNx may comprise a transparent conductive material configured to facilitate backlighting and/or touch sensing. The user interface system UUCS may be configured for a default or off/inactive state and an active state with the light display LD comprising an image IC to provide data/information or visual effect by illumination for the vehicle occupant. The sensor arrangement SN may comprise a sensor at a sensor region SNx configured to provide an operator control OC such as a switch, detector, button, etc. as an input device at an icon/image IC for the user interface UI. The sensor SNx may be configured to sense touch at the user interface UI; the sensor SNx may be configured to sense a gesture near the user interface UI. The sensor SNx may comprise ink NK at or on an inner surface of the cover T. The ink may comprise an electrically conductive material. The electrically conductive material may be configured to transmit light for a light display LD from a light source LS. The electrically conductive material may comprise a transparent material. The ink may comprise a ultraviol et/UV fluorescent ink. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow when exposed to a UV light. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow to facilitate inspection of the sensor SNx. The ink may be on the inner surface of the cover T. [0087] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 21A-21E, 22A-22G, 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A-26C, the ink/material NK may be deposited on the inner surface of the cover by at least one of (a) screen printing; (b) inkjet printing; (c) pad printing; (d) gravure printing; (e) offset printing. The ink may comprise a conductive trace configured to sense touch and/or proximity. The inner surface of the cover T may comprise a curved surface. The ink may be deposited on the curved surface by pad printing. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 18, 24A-24C, 25A-25C and 26A-26C, the sensor arrangement SN with sensor SNx may comprise a film TF comprising light transmissive conductive ink NK; the film may comprise a thin plastic; the film may comprise a PET sheet. The light transmissive conductive ink may be on the film. The sensor SNx may comprise at least one of (a) an array and/or (b) a grid and/or (c) a foil and/or (d) a panel and/or (e) a touch panel and/or (f) a flexible panel and/or (g) a detector and/or (h) a proximity detector and/or (i) a capacitive touch panel and/or (j) a pressure sensitive panel and/or (k) a sensor grid SN and/or (1) a sensor SNx foil and/or (m) a capacitive sensor SNx foil and/or (n) a touch sensor SNx and/or (o) a proximity sensor SNx.

[0088] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the component C may comprise a circuit board CB. The component C may comprise a coupling/conductor CD. The coupling CD may be configured to electrically connect the sensor SNx to the circuit board CB. The coupling CD may be configured to transmit input at the user interface UI to the circuit board CB. The component C may comprise a spacer SR/structure between the sensor SNx and the circuit board. The spacer SR may comprise an enclosure for the coupling CD. The circuit board may be configured to process a signal. The circuit board may be configured to control at least one vehicle system.

[0089] As indicated schematically in the FIGURES, the cover T may be formed from a resin material. The cover T may comprise a single layer. The cover T may comprise a single material.

[0090] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 1B-1C, 2A-2D and 20A-20B, the component C may comprise at least one of (a) a steering wheel; (b) a console; (c) a floor console; (d) a center console; (e) an instrument panel; (f) a door panel; (g) a dashboard; (h) a display; (i) an arm rest; (j) a cockpit.

Exemplary Embodiments - D

[0091] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system may comprise a user interface system comprising (a) a cover configured to present the user interface for the vehicle occupant; and (b) a sensor configured to detect input from the vehicle occupant at or adjacent to the cover. The user interface for the vehicle occupant may comprise a light display from a light source. The sensor may be configured to allow transmission of light from at least one light source to an outer surface of the cover to present the user interface. The sensor may comprise a transparent conductive material configured to facilitate backlighting and touch sensing. The user interface system may be configured for (a) a default or off/inactive state and (b) an active state with the light display comprising an image to provide data/information or visual effect by illumination for the vehicle occupant. The sensor may be configured to sense touch at the user interface. The sensor may be configured to sense a gesture near the user interface. The sensor may comprise ink on an inner surface of the cover. The ink may comprise an electrically conductive material. The electrically conductive material may be configured to transmit light. The electrically conductive material may comprise a transparent material. The ink may comprise a UV fluorescent ink. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow when exposed to a UV light. The UV fluorescent ink may be configured to glow to facilitate inspection of the sensor. The ink may be printed on the inner surface of the cover. The ink may be deposited on the inner surface of the cover by at least one of (a) screen printing; (b) inkjet printing; (c) pad printing; (d) gravure printing; (e) offset printing. The ink may comprise a conductive trace configured to sense touch and/or proximity. The inner surface of the cover may comprise a curved surface. The ink may be deposited on the curved surface by pad printing. The sensor may comprise a film comprising light transmissive conductive ink. The film may comprise a thin plastic. The film may comprise a PET sheet. The light transmissive conductive ink may be printed on the film. The sensor may comprise at least one of (a) an array, (b) a grid, (c) a foil, (d) a panel, (e) a touch panel, (f) a flexible panel, (g) a detector, (h) a proximity detector, (i) a capacitive touch panel, (j) a pressure sensitive panel, (k) a sensor grid, (1) a sensor foil, (m) a capacitive sensor foil, (n) a touch sensor, (o) a proximity sensor. The component may comprise a printed circuit board. The component may comprise a coupling. The coupling may be configured to electrically connect the sensor to the printed circuit board. The coupling may be configured to transmit input at the user interface to the printed circuit board. The coupling may comprise a conductive material. The coupling may comprise a conductive rubber material. The component may comprise a spacer between the sensor and the printed circuit board. The spacer may comprise an enclosure for the coupling. The printed circuit board may be configured to process a signal. The printed circuit board may be configured to control the at least one vehicle system. The cover may be formed from a resin material. The cover may comprise a single layer. The cover may comprise a single material. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a steering wheel; (b) a console; (c) a floor console; (d) a center console; (e) an instrument panel; (f) a door panel; (g) a dashboard; (h) a display; (i) an arm rest; (j) a cockpit.

[0092] A component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant may comprise a user interface system comprising a cover to present the user interface and a sensor to detect input from the vehicle occupant at or adjacent to the cover. The user interface may comprise a light display from a light source. The sensor may allow transmission of light from the at least one light source to an outer surface of the cover to present the user interface. The sensor may comprise a transparent conductive material configured to facilitate backlighting and touch sensing. The sensor may be configured to sense touch and/or gesture at or near the user interface. The sensor may comprise ink on an inner surface of the cover. The ink may comprise an electrically conductive material configured to transmit light. The ink may comprise a UV fluorescent ink.

* * *

[0093] 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.

[0094] It is also important to note that according to exemplary embodiments the present inventions may comprise conventional technology (e.g. as implemented and/or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) or may comprise any other applicable technology (present and/or future) with suitability and/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

CLAIMS The invention claimed is:

1. A component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface comprising: a composite structure comprising a base and a cover and an interface between the cover and the base; wherein the cover comprises an exterior surface and an interior surface; wherein the composite structure comprises a material at the interior surface of the cover; wherein the interface is configured to connect the cover to the base; wherein the interface comprises an electrical interface and/or a mechanical interface; wherein the user interface comprises an input device at the exterior surface of the cover; wherein the material comprises a conductive material.

2. The component of Claim 1 wherein the material comprises a layer of applied material.

3. The component of Claim 1 wherein the material comprises an electrically conductive material.

4. The component of Claim 1 wherein the material comprises a generally light- transmissive material.

5. The component of Claim 4 wherein the material comprises a generally semitransparent material.

6. The component of Claim 2 wherein the material comprises an ink material.

7. The component of Claim 6 wherein the ink material comprises a conductive ink.

8. The component of Claim 6 wherein the ink material comprises a light- transmissive ink.

9. The component of Claim 1 wherein the material is configured to provide a sensor arrangement.

10. The component of Claim 9 wherein the input device comprises the sensor arrangement.

11. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a detector.

12. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a sensor.

13. The component of Claim 12 wherein the sensor is provided at a section of the sensor arrangement.

14. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a pattern.

15. The component of Claim 14 wherein the pattern comprises a gap configured to facilitate capacitive sensing.

16. The component of Claim 14 wherein the pattern is provided at a section of the sensor arrangement.

17. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an interface.

18. The component of Claim 17 wherein the interface is provided at a section of the sensor arrangement.

19. The component of Claim 6 wherein the material comprises an ink material comprising the sensor arrangement.

20. The component of Claim 6 wherein the ink material comprises an applied ink material.

21. The component of Claim 6 wherein the ink material comprises an applied light-transmissive ink material.

22. The component of Claim 7 wherein the ink material comprises an applied ink comprising silver.

23. The component of Claim 22 wherein the ink material comprises an applied ink comprising nano silver particles.

24. The component of Claim 7 wherein the ink material comprises an applied ink comprising indium tin oxide (ITO).

25. The component of Claim 7 wherein the ink material comprises an applied ink comprising metallic particles.

26. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a semitransparent sensor arrangement.

27. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a light- transmissive sensor arrangement.

28. The component of Claim 1 wherein the exterior surface of the cover comprises a generally planar surface.

29. The component of Claim 1 wherein the interior surface of the cover comprises a generally planar surface.

30. The component of Claim 1 wherein the exterior surface of the cover comprises a curved surface.

31. The component of Claim 1 wherein the interior surface of the cover comprises a curved surface.

32. The component of Claim 1 wherein the interior surface of the cover comprises a recessed section.

33. The component of Claim 28 wherein the interior surface of the cover comprises a recessed section.

34. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a recessed section.

35. The component of Claim 34 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a raised section configured to correspond to the recessed section of the cover.

36. The component of Claim 34 wherein the recessed section of the cover comprises a recess.

37. The component of Claim 35 wherein the raised section of the sensor arrangement comprises a projection.

38. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a contour section.

39. The component of Claim 38 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a contour section configured to correspond to the contour section of the cover.

40. The component of Claim 38 wherein the contour section of the cover comprises a recess.

41. The component of Claim 39 wherein the contour section of the sensor arrangement comprises a projection.

42. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a circuit configured to operate the input device.

43. The component of Claim 10 wherein the input device comprises a sensor arrangement.

44. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises the material.

45. The component of Claim 1 wherein the user interface comprises an output device at the exterior surface of the cover.

46. The component of Claim 45 wherein the composite structure comprises a light source configured to provide illumination for the user interface.

47. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises an assembly.

48. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base comprises a panel.

49. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base comprises a circuit board.

50. The component of Claim 1 wherein the material comprises at least one of an applied material and/or a conductive material and/or a light-transmissive material and/or a light-transmissive ink and/or a conductive ink and/or a sensor and/or a sensor grid and/or an applied conductive material and/or a printed material and/or a pad-printed material and/or a screen-printed material and/or a deposited material.

51. The component of Claim 46 wherein the light source comprises an LED and/or an LED array.

52. The component of Claim 1 wherein the user interface comprises the input device and an output device.

53. The component of Claim 10 wherein the input device comprises a sensor in the sensor arrangement.

54. The component of Claim 1 wherein the input device comprises an icon.

55. The component of Claim 54 wherein the input device comprises an icon to provide a switch.

56. The component of Claim 1 wherein the input device comprises a switch.

57. The component of Claim 45 wherein the input device comprises an output device comprising a light source.

58. The component of Claim 12 wherein the sensor comprises a capacitive touch sensor.

59. The component of Claim 1 wherein the interface comprises a mechanical interface and an electrical interface.

60. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a sensor region and an interface region.

61. The component of Claim 60 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a ground region and the sensor region.

62. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a conductor between the cover and the base.

63. The component of Claim 62 wherein the composite structure comprises a conductor between the sensor arrangement and a circuit provided on the base.

64. The component of Claim 62 wherein the conductor comprises an elastomer material.

65. The component of Claim 64 wherein the conductor comprises a conductive elastomer material.

66. The component of Claim 65 wherein the elastomer material comprises a rubber material.

67. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a light transmissive material.

68. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a plastic material.

69. The component of Claim 68 wherein the cover comprises an optical-quality plastic material.

70. The component of Claim 68 wherein the cover comprises at least one of a polycarbonate (PC); polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS); styrene acrylonitrile (SAN).

71. The component of Claim 70 wherein the cover comprises a polycarbonate material.

72. The component of Claim 67 wherein the cover comprises a light-transmissive material and an underlayer.

73. The component of Claim 72 wherein the underlayer comprises an opaque material.

74. The component of Claim 1 wherein the user interface is configured to facilitate interaction with at least one vehicle system.

75. The component of Claim 1 wherein the user interface is powered by a power source.

76. The component of Claim 71 wherein the cover comprises a clear polycarbonate layer.

77. The component of Claim 76 wherein the cover comprises a polycarbonate inner layer.

78. The component of Claim 76 wherein the cover comprises a polycarbonate underlayer.

79. The component of Claim 62 wherein the composite structure comprises a member comprising a conductor.

80. The component of Claim 79 wherein the composite structure comprises a member comprising an elastomeric conductor.

81. The component of Claim 80 wherein the elastomeric conductor is provided at the interface with the sensor arrangement.

82. The component of Claim 81 wherein the elastomeric conductor is provided at the interface for the sensor of the sensor arrangement.

83. The component of Claim 81 wherein the elastomeric conductor is compressed at the interface with the sensor arrangement.

84. The component of Claim 83 wherein the elastomeric conductor is compressed at the interface with the circuit of the circuit board.

85. The component of Claim 84 wherein the elastomeric conductor is compressed at the interface with the trace on the circuit board.

86. The component of Claim 85 wherein the elastomeric conductor is compressed at the interface with the trace at the interior surface of cover.

87. The component of Claim 1 wherein the composite structure comprises a structure separating the cover and the base.

88. The component of Claim 2 wherein the material comprises an applied material comprising a fluid.

89. The component of Claim 88 wherein the fluid comprises an ink.

90. The component of Claim 89 wherein the applied material comprises a conductive ink comprising metallic elements.

91. The component of Claim 2 wherein the applied material comprises a layer comprising an applied layer.

92. The component of Claim 91 wherein the applied material comprises a first applied ink layer and a second applied ink layer.

93. The component of Claim 91 wherein the layer comprises a light transmissive material.

94. The component of Claim 91 wherein the layer comprises a conductive material.

95. The component of Claim 72 wherein the cover comprises an opaque underlayer.

96. The component of Claim 95 wherein the opaque underlayer comprises an opening.

97. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a generally transparent material.

98. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a generally light transmissive material.

99. The component of Claim 9 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a sensor layer.

100. The component of Claim 99 wherein the sensor layer comprises a sensor grid.

101. The component of Claim 99 wherein the sensor layer comprises a sensor pad.

102. The component of Claim 99 wherein the sensor layer comprises a sensor region configured to provide a sensor.

103. The component of Claim 99 wherein the sensor layer comprises a composite of a transparent and conductive layer and an intermediate layer.

104. The component of Claim 99 wherein the sensor layer is configured to present a graphic.

105. The component of Claim 104 wherein the sensor layer is configured to present an image.

106. The component of Claim 104 wherein the sensor layer is configured to provide an icon.

107. The component of Claim 99 wherein the sensor layer comprises a first conductive layer and a second opaque layer.

108. The component of Claim 99 wherein the sensor layer comprises a conductive layer and a diffuser layer.

109. The component of Claim 34 wherein the cover comprises a recess.

110. The component of Claim 109 wherein the sensor layer is configured to fit within the recess.

111. The component of Claim 46 wherein the composite structure comprises a light system configured to provide illumination at the user interface.

112. The component of Claim 111 wherein the light system comprises a light guide in between the cover and the light source.

113. The component of Claim 112 wherein the light system comprises a light guide adjacent to the conductor between the cover and the light source.

114. The component of Claim 111 wherein illumination comprises backlighting.

115. The component of Claim 111 wherein illumination comprises edge lighting.

116. The component of Claim 115 wherein illumination comprises edge lighting through the cover.

117. The component of Claim 111 wherein the light source is configured to provide a back light effect.

118. The component of Claim 87 wherein the spacer comprises an enclosure for the coupling.

119. The component of Claim 49 wherein the circuit board is configured to process a signal.

120. The component of Claim 119 wherein the circuit board is configured to control the at least one vehicle system.

121. The component of Claim 68 wherein the cover is formed from a resin material.

122. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a single layer.

123. The component of Claim 122 wherein the cover comprises a single material.

124. The component of Claim 2 formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material at the cover of the composite structure.

125. The component of Claim 124 formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material at the interior surface of the cover of the composite structure.

126. The component of Claim 124 formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material as a sensor arrangement at the cover of the composite structure.

127. The component of Claim 125 formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material on the interior surface of the cover of the composite structure.

128. The component of Claim 127 formed by a process comprising the step of printing the material as a sensor arrangement on the interior surface of the cover of the composite structure.

129. The component of Claim 1 comprising at least one of (a) a steering wheel and/or (b) a console and/or (c) a floor console and/or (d) a center console and/or (e) an instrument panel and/or (f) a door panel and/or (g) a dashboard and/or (h) a display and/or (i) an arm rest and/or (j) a cockpit and/or (k) an overhead console.

130. A component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system comprising: a composite structure comprising:

(a) a cover configured to present the user interface;

(b) a sensor arrangement configured to detect input at or adjacent to the cover; wherein the user interface for the vehicle occupant comprises an input device comprising the sensor arrangement and an output device comprising a light display from a light source.

131. The component of Claim 130 wherein the cover comprises an exterior surface and an interior surface.

132. The component of Claim 131 wherein the exterior surface comprises an outer surface and the interior surface comprises an inner surface.

133. The component of Claim 131 wherein the user interface is presented at the exterior surface of the cover.

134. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement is configured to allow transmission of light from the light source to an exterior surface of the cover to present the user interface.

135. The component of Claim 134 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a light-transmissive conductive material configured to facilitate an output signal comprising illumination and an input signal by detection.

136. The component of Claim 130 wherein the user interface provided by the composite structure is configured to provide (a) an off/inactive state and (b) an active state.

137. The component of Claim 136 wherein the active state comprises illumination by the light display.

138. The component of Claim 137 wherein illumination by the light display comprising presentation of an image.

139. The component of Claim 138 wherein presentation of the image comprises data/information and/or a visual effect.

140. The component of Claim 138 wherein presentation of the image comprises an output signal comprising illumination.

141. The component of Claim 136 wherein the user interface provided by the composite structure is configured to provide a default state comprising the off/inactive state.

142. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a sensor configured to detect touch at the user interface.

143. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a sensor configured to detect a movement near the user interface.

144. The component of Claim 131 wherein the sensor arrangement is provided at an interior surface of the cover.

145. The component of Claim 144 wherein the sensor arrangement is provided on an interior surface of the cover.

146. The component of Claim 144 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a material at the interior surface.

147. The component of Claim 145 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a material on the interior surface.

148. The component of Claim 144 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a material applied at the interior surface.

149. The component of Claim 145 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an applied material on the interior surface.

150. The component of Claim 149 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an ink on the interior surface.

151. The component of Claim 150 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an electrically conductive material on the interior surface.

152. The component of Claim 150 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a light-transmissive material on the interior surface.

153. The component of Claim 151 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an electrically conductive applied material on the interior surface.

154. The component of Claim 152 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a light-transmissive applied material on the interior surface.

155. The component of Claim 153 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an electrically conductive and light-transmissive material on the interior surface.

156. The component of Claim 154 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an electrically conductive and light-transmissive applied material on the interior surface.

157. The component of Claim 156 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an electrically conductive and light-transmissive applied ink material on the interior surface.

158. The component of Claim 148 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an ink applied at the interior surface.

159. The component of Claim 158 wherein the ink comprises an electrically conductive material.

160. The component of Claim 159 wherein the electrically conductive material comprises a light-transmissive material.

161. The component of Claim 160 wherein the electrically conductive material comprises a semi-transparent material.

162. The component of Claim 158 wherein the ink comprises a fluorescent ink.

163. The component of Claim 162 wherein the fluorescent ink is configured to emit light when exposed to UV light to facilitate inspection of the sensor arrangement.

164. The component of Claim 158 wherein the ink is printed on the interior surface of the cover.

165. The component of Claim 164 wherein the ink is deposited on the interior surface of the cover by at least one of (a) screen printing and/or (b) inkjet printing and/or (c) pad printing and/or (d) gravure printing and/or (e) offset printing and/or (f) spray printing and/or (g) three-dimensional printing and/or (i) transfer printing and/or (j) stencil printing.

166. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a contact region.

167. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises an interface region.

168. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a ground mesh region.

169. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a conductive trace.

170. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement is configured to detect touch and/or proximity.

171. The component of Claim 149 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises the applied material.

172. The component of Claim 171 wherein the applied material comprises an ink configured to detect touch and/or proximity.

173. The component of Claim 130 wherein the cover comprises light-transmissive material.

174. The component of Claim 173 wherein the cover comprises a light-transmissive layer and a generally opaque layer.

175. The component of Claim 174 wherein the generally opaque layer of the cover comprises a light-transmissive section.

176. The component of Claim 175 wherein the composite structure is configured to present an image at the light-transmissive section.

177. The component of Claim 176 wherein the image comprises an icon.

178. The component of Claim 176 wherein the image is configured to be illuminated by the light source.

179. The component of Claim 175 wherein the composite structure is configured to provide a detector at the light-transmissive section.

180. The component of Claim 179 wherein the detector comprises a sensor.

181. The component of Claim 175 wherein the composite structure is configured to provide a sensor at the light-transmissive section.

182. The component of Claim 181 wherein the sensor comprises a touch sensor.

183. The component of Claim 182 wherein the sensor comprises a capacitive touch sensor.

184. The component of Claim 181 wherein the sensor comprises a region in the sensor arrangement.

185. The component of Claim 184 wherein the sensor comprises a section of applied material at the interior surface of the cover.

186. The component of Claim 181 wherein the sensor is configured to be actuated by a control system.

187. The component of Claim 181 wherein the sensor is coupled to a power source.

188. The component of Claim 181 wherein the sensor comprises an input device for the user interface.

189. The component of Claim 181 wherein the sensor is connected to the base.

190. The component of Claim 189 wherein the sensor is connected to the base by an interface.

191. The component of Claim 189 wherein the sensor is connected to the base by a conductor.

192. The component of Claim 190 wherein the interface comprises a conductor.

193. The component of Claim 190 wherein the interface comprises an electrical interface.

194. The component of Claim 190 wherein the interface is configured to connect the sensor to the control system.

195. The component of Claim 131 wherein the cover comprises a film at the under interior surface.

196. The component of Claim 195 wherein the sensor arrangement is provided on the film.

197. The component of Claim 131 wherein the composite structure comprises an applied material at the interior surface of the cover.

198. The component of Claim 197 wherein the applied material comprises the sensor arrangement.

199. The component of Claim 131 wherein the composite structure comprises an intermediate layer at the interior surface of the cover.

200. The component of Claim 131 wherein the cover comprises a curved surface.

201. The component of Claim 200 wherein the interior surface of the cover comprises a curved surface.

202. The component of Claim 201 wherein the ink is deposited on the curved surface by pad printing.

203. The component of Claim 196 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a film comprising light transmissive conductive ink.

204. The component of Claim 203 wherein the ink is deposited by printing of light- transmissive pattern at the interior surface of the cover.

205. The component of Claim 203 wherein the ink is deposited by printing of light- transmissive pattern on a film at the interior surface of the cover.

206. The component of Claim 205 wherein the ink is deposited by printing of light- transmissive pattern on a thin film at the interior surface of the cover.

207. The component of Claim 206 wherein the film comprises a thin plastic.

208. The component of Claim 207 wherein the film comprises a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheet.

209. The component of Claim 208 wherein the light transmissive conductive ink is printed on the film.

210. The component of Claim 130 wherein the sensor arrangement comprises at least one of (a) an array and/or (b) a grid and/or (c) a foil and/or (d) a panel and/or (e) a touch panel and/or (f) a flexible panel and/or (g) a detector and/or (h) a proximity detector and/or (i) a capacitive touch panel and/or (j) a pressure sensitive panel and/or (k) a sensor arrangement grid and/or (1) a sensor arrangement foil and/or (m) a capacitive sensor arrangement foil and/or (n) a touch sensor arrangement and/or (o) a proximity sensor arrangement.

211. The component of Claim 130 wherein the composite structure comprises a base.

212. The component of Claim 211 wherein the base comprises a panel.

213. The component of Claim 212 wherein the panel comprises a circuit board.

214. The component of Claim 211 wherein the composite structure comprises an interface between the cover and the base.

215. The component of Claim 214 wherein the interface comprises a mechanical interface.

216. The component of Claim 214 wherein the interface comprises an electrical interface.

217. The component of Claim 214 wherein the interface comprises a mechanical interface and an electrical interface.

218. The component of Claim 214 wherein the interface comprises a conductor.

219. The component of Claim 218 wherein the conductor is configured to electrically connect the sensor arrangement to the circuit board.

220. The component of Claim 219 wherein the conductor is configured to transmit input at the user interface to the circuit board.

221. The component of Claim 218 wherein the conductor comprises a conductive material.

222. The component of Claim 221 wherein the conductor comprises a conductive elastomeric material.

223. The component of Claim 214 wherein the interface comprises a coupling.

224. The component of Claim 223 wherein the coupling is configured to electrically connect the sensor arrangement to the circuit board.

225. The component of Claim 224 wherein the coupling is configured to transmit input at the user interface to the circuit board.

226. The component of Claim 223 wherein the coupling comprises a conductive material.

227. The component of Claim 226 wherein the coupling comprises a conductive elastomeric material.

228. The component of Claim 211 wherein the composite structure comprises a structure between the cover and the circuit panel.

229. The component of Claim 228 wherein the composite structure comprises a member between the cover and the circuit panel.

230. The component of Claim 228 wherein the composite structure further comprises a structure between the sensor arrangement of the cover and the circuit panel.

231. The component of Claim 230 wherein the structure comprises a spacer.

232. The component of Claim 231 wherein the structure comprises a member and a conductor.

233. The component of Claim 231 wherein the structure is coupled to the cover at an interface.

234. The component of Claim 231 wherein the structure is coupled to the circuit panel at an interface.

235. The component of Claim 231 wherein the structure comprises a spacer between the sensor arrangement and the circuit panel.

236. The component of Claim 235 wherein the spacer comprises an enclosure for the conductor.

237. The component of Claim 213 wherein the circuit board comprises a system configured to process a signal.

238. The component of Claim 130 wherein the cover is formed from a resin material.

239. A component for a vehicle interior configured to provide a user interface for interaction with a vehicle occupant in a vehicle providing at least one vehicle system comprising: a user interface system comprising:

(a) a cover configured to present the user interface for the vehicle occupant; and

(b) a sensor configured to detect input from the vehicle occupant at or adjacent to the cover; wherein the user interface for the vehicle occupant comprises a light display from a light source.

240. The component of Claim 239 wherein the sensor comprises a transparent conductive material configured to facilitate backlighting and touch sensing.

241. The component of Claim 239 wherein the user interface system is configured for (a) a default or off/inactive state and (b) an active state with the light display comprising an image to provide data/information or visual effect by illumination for the vehicle occupant.

242. The component of Claim 239 wherein the sensor is configured to sense touch at the user interface.

243. The component of Claim 239 wherein the sensor is configured to sense a gesture near the user interface.

244. The component of Claim 239 wherein the sensor comprises ink on an inner surface of the cover.

245. The component of Claim 244 wherein the ink comprises an electrically conductive material and wherein the electrically conductive material is configured to transmit light.

246. The component of Claim 244 wherein the ink is printed on the inner surface of the cover.

247. The component of Claim 244 wherein the inner surface of the cover comprises a curved surface.

248. The component of Claim 247 wherein the ink is deposited on the curved surface by pad printing.

249. The component of Claim 239 wherein the sensor comprises a film comprising light transmissive conductive ink.

250. The component of Claim 249 wherein the film comprises a thin plastic.

251. The component of Claim 249 wherein the light transmissive conductive ink is printed on the film.

252. The component of Claim 239 wherein the sensor comprises at least one of (a) an array and/or (b) a grid and/or (c) a foil and/or (d) a panel and/or (e) a touch panel and/or (f) a flexible panel and/or (g) a detector and/or (h) a proximity detector and/or (i) a capacitive touch panel and/or (j) a pressure sensitive panel and/or (k) a sensor grid and/or (1) a sensor foil and/or (m) a capacitive sensor foil and/or (n) a touch sensor and/or (o) a proximity sensor.

253. The component of Claim 239 further comprising a printed circuit board and a coupling.

254. The component of Claim 253 wherein the coupling is configured to electrically connect the sensor to the printed circuit board.

255. The component of Claim 253 wherein the coupling is configured to transmit input at the user interface to the printed circuit board.

256. The component of Claim 253 wherein the coupling comprises a conductive material.

257. The component of Claim 253 further comprising a spacer between the sensor and the printed circuit board.

258. The component of Claim 257 wherein the spacer comprises an enclosure for the coupling.