Abstract: A method of manufacturing decorative plastic composites having a decorative layer, a backing layer and a clear outer layer which provides exceptional “depth of image” is disclosed. Decorative or protective appliqués' having a wide range of decorative patterns may be formed by injection molding a backing layer behind and a clear outer layer on the top surface of a thin foil, film, fabric or veneer. A method is also disclosed for coating the exposed surface of the decorative layer between injection of the backing and outer layers to impart a desired visual effect or repair the surface. Use of multiple layers of decorative film, clear plastic and colored/opaque plastic is also disclosed to provide distinguishing visual effects.

Abstract: Decorative or protective appliqués' or trim panels having a wide range of decorative patterns may be formed by injection molding a backing layer behind and a transparent outer layer on the top surface of a thin foil, film, fabric or veneer. Use of multiple layers of decorative film, transparent plastic and colored/opaque plastic is also disclosed to provide distinguishing visual effects. The appliqués and trim panels may be backlighted or edge-lighted selectively by providing a light source behind or optically coupled to a runner molded as part of the transparent outer layer.

Abstract: A combination for a vehicle is set forth herein. The combination includes a compartment positioned in the vehicle. The compartment is defined by a plurality of surfaces generally facing one another to define an interior volume. The compartment is thereby operable to hold a stowable item. A first surface of the plurality of surfaces is substantially fixed relative to the vehicle and a second surface of the plurality of surfaces is movable relative to the first surface. The combination also includes at least one self-contained light mounted on the second surface. The at least one self-contained light includes at least one light emitting structure and at least one battery.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing decorative appliqués having a decorative outer layer, a clear backing layer which provides exceptional “depth of image” and a substrate layer is provided. Decorative or protective appliqués' having a wide range of decorative patterns may be formed by injection molding a clear plastic behind the surface of a thin substantially transparent film, fabric or sheet and backing such decorative composites with a substrate layer. The presence of the clear layer behind the relatively transparent decorative layer provides enhanced depth of image to the features of the decorative layer.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing decorative plastic composites having a decorative layer, a backing layer and a clear outer layer which provides exceptional “depth of image” is disclosed. Decorative or protective appliqués' having a wide range of decorative patterns may be formed by injection molding a backing layer behind and a clear outer layer on the top surface of a decorative layer, the decorative layer comprising a relatively thin metal foil, film, fabric, veneer or sheet of paper having a digital image from an inkjet printer deposited on a front surface thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, the appearance of a wood veneer may be modified by digitally printing a burl pattern over the wood grain surface of the veneer prior to injection molding.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing decorative plastic composites having a decorative layer, a backing layer and a clear outer layer which provides exceptional “depth of image” is disclosed. Decorative or protective appliqués' having a wide range of decorative patterns may be formed by injection molding a backing layer behind and a clear outer layer on the top surface of a relatively thin foil, film, fabric, veneer or sheet of paper.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing decorative plastic composites having a decorative layer, a backing layer and a clear outer layer which provides exceptional “depth of image” is disclosed. Decorative or protective appliqués' having a wide range of decorative patterns may be formed by injection molding a backing layer behind and a clear outer layer on the top surface of a thin foil, film, fabric or veneer. A method is also disclosed for coating the exposed surface of the decorative layer between injection of the backing and outer layers to impart a desired visual effect or repair the surface. Use of multiple layers of decorative film, clear plastic and colored/opaque plastic is also disclosed to provide distinguishing visual effects.

Abstract: An improvement in the fit and finish of a center stack or console area of a vehicle is provided by integrating individual electronic module faceplate and trim bezels into a single faceplate which may be positioned independent of the individual modules. A jumper or flat wire connector provides communication between the controls on the faceplate and the module. A molded alignment guide is provided to direct pass-through media through a slot in the faceplate and into the module.

Abstract: A portable storage device and filing system is provided for use in a transportation vehicle. The system comprises a case which may be engaged with an interior trim component, such as an interior sidewall, and the device may appear to be part of the interior vehicle trim. The device may be accessed by articulating the sides of the case away from one another to expose the interior of the case. The interior of the case may include an expandable compartment having dividers or folders for storage and organizing of loose pieces of paper. The case may be trimmed to coordinate with the interior theme of the vehicle when stored in the vehicle.

Abstract: An expandable/collapsible apparatus is provided for storing items within vehicle compartments that may be manipulated into an operative position or into a closed position. The apparatus may include a plurality of panels that are pivotally attached to one another so that the apparatus is movable between a closed position beneath, e.g., an upper panel or roof portion of a vehicle and an open position expanded for receiving items for storage. A spring loaded latch may be provided for securing the apparatus in either a collapsed or expanded (drop-down) position. Access to the apparatus may be through the trunk or rear cargo area of a vehicle or through a door formed in the package shelf of a vehicle.

Abstract: A hunting stand system transformable between elevated, floating, and ski-mounted configurations. A cabin is hauled by and semi-permanently mounted upon a trailer by pinning. When the destination is reached, the cabin is unpinned and then elevated by a power winch within the enclosure. A cable routed upwardly through a guide tube exits the roof and is connected to an overhanging support. Once the cable is secured, the cabin is raised upwardly away from the trailer by the winch, and suitable legs are pinned to spaced apart struts in the floor with T-fittings that enable vertical and horizontal adjustments. With the legs installed, the cabin is lowered slightly to tension the legs. For transportation the cabin is pinned to the atop a pair of transverse adaptor tubes pinned to the trailer frame. The adaptor tubes enable attachment of a pair of floats or skis.

Abstract: A messaging and alerting service is described. An implementation includes enrolling a customer in the messaging and alert service, storing a list of businesses selected by the customer, storing a customer contact hierarchy list, and contacting the customer according to the contact hierarchy list. The messaging and alerting service enables real-time, interactive alerts to be delivered to customers in the customer's preferred media. In addition, customers may respond to the alerts to provide important directions to a business.