Abstract: An outer cover for an airbag door of an instrument panel includes a substrate formed from a polymer. A score line is formed into a first surface of the substrate to define an airbag deployment tear seam. A fiber is embedded into and integrally formed with the substrate. The fiber is disposed adjacent to the score line to limit particle separation of the polymer outer cover during deployment of an airbag through the outer cover.

Abstract: A head restraint for a seat includes a core support structure supporting a dual rate cushioning foam. The dual rate cushioning foam includes a dilatant material that changes from a first compression rate providing a first stiffness to a second compression rate providing a second stiffness in response to a strain rate in the dilatant material rising above a pre-defined limit. The first compression rate at the first stiffness provides a softer feel to the occupant for normal operation of the vehicle. The second compression rate at the second stiffness provides a stiffer resistance to resist the sudden rearward movement of the occupant's head in the event of a sudden rear impact.