Abstract: A vehicle interior component configured to provide a user interface for vehicle systems is disclosed. The component may provide a user interface for a vehicle occupant. The component may comprise a composite structure to provide the user interface comprising a cover providing an exterior surface, a sensor, light panel, absorber panel and/or decorative material. The light panel may provide output visible at the exterior surface; the decorative layer and/or absorber panel may provide a visual effect. The cover may comprise a light-transmissive cover; illumination from a display may comprise visible light transmitted through a functional layer and through an at least partially translucent cover. The component may comprise a light panel to provide output visible at the cover exterior surface. A method of operating the user interface provided by the composite structure is also disclosed. The user interface may be coupled to a control system.

Abstract: A vehicle interior component is disclosed. The component may comprise a base, a cover moveable between closed and open positions and a handle. The handle may be retracted when the cover is closed and extended when the cover is open. The handle may move toward the retracted position when the cover moves from the open position to the closed position. The component may comprise a mechanism to engage the base to move the handle. The mechanism may comprise a spring to bias or move the handle. The component may comprise a spring to move the cover from the closed to the open position. The component may comprise at least one of a console, a floor console, a center console, a storage compartment, an arm rest. The cover may comprise at least one of a door, a tambour door, a shade, a blind, a roller blind.

Abstract: A vehicle interior component is disclosed. The component may comprise a base, a cover moveable between closed and open positions and a handle. The handle may be retracted when the cover is closed and extended when the cover is open. The handle may move toward the retracted position when the cover moves from the open position to the closed position. The component may comprise a mechanism to engage the base to move the handle. The mechanism may comprise a spring to bias or move the handle. The component may comprise a spring to move the cover from the closed to the open position. The component may comprise at least one of a console, a floor console, a center console, a storage compartment, an arm rest. The cover may comprise at least one of a door, a tambour door, a shade, a blind, a roller blind.