US Patent:
20100187847, Jul 29, 2010
Inventors:
Thomas A. Jones - Macomb MI, US
Raymond A. Beaufait - Macomb MI, US
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC. - Detroit MI
International Classification:
B62D 65/14
Abstract:
The present invention provides a variety of interior trim structures for use within a passenger compartment of a motorized vehicle. Each interior trim structure includes a structure body configured to attach to the vehicle. The structure body has at least one exterior wall that is visible to occupants of the passenger compartment. At least a portion of the visible wall is fabricated entirely from a segment of natural bamboo stalk. In one embodiment, the segment is a one-piece, monolithic ring of natural bamboo. Alternatively, the segment can be fabricated as a trim panel that is formed from a plurality of precut natural bamboo slats. The interior trim structure can be configured as a storage receptacle, electronic dial, instrument cluster gauge fixture, storage compartment lid, or cosmetic trim panel.