WO2024161136A1

WO2024161136A1 - A vehicle trim

Info

Publication number: WO2024161136A1
Application number: PCT/GB2024/050259
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mohamed ABD EL GHANI; Natasha HARDING
Original assignee: Bentley Motors Ltd
Current assignee: Bentley Motors Ltd
Priority date: 2023-01-31
Filing date: 2024-01-30
Publication date: 2024-08-08
Anticipated expiration: 2025-07-31

Abstract

A vehicle trim comprises a cover layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, and allowing transmission of light therethrough but being otherwise opaque. The vehicle trim comprises sensing elements to detect a user input for controlling a vehicle function. In a first control mode, the sensing elements receive a user input and control the vehicle function with a first control scheme and in a second control mode the sensing elements control the vehicle function with a second control scheme. The surface of the trim comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function prior to detection of a user input. The sensing elements are configured to detect a switching user input and switch from the first control mode to the second control mode. A light source is operable to illuminate the cover layer to indicate the sensing elements are in the second control mode.

Description

A vehicle trim

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a vehicle and in particular, but not exclusively to a vehicle trim that is touch sensitive and is illuminated by a light source. The invention extends to a control system and a method for controlling one or more vehicle functions and a light source associated with the vehicle trim and a vehicle.

Background to the Invention

Vehicles are typically provided with numerous different vehicle functions beyond the task of driving the vehicle. These might relate to the driving task (e.g. lighting systems, indicators, etc.), but equally may not be directly related (audio and media, ambient lighting, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), etc.). In general, the number of different vehicle functions being incorporated into a vehicle is increasing, and each must be provided with a means to interact therewith and control its operation.

This provides challenges for vehicle manufacturers to ensure each vehicle function can be controlled easily and intuitively by the vehicle occupants. There are also challenges in showing the vehicle occupants the status of the vehicle function’s operational characteristics, such as the volume of an audio function or temperature setting of a HVAC system without cluttering the vehicle interior or unnecessarily shrinking display apparatus. These needs must also be balanced with the need to provide a clean and modern vehicle interior.

Further, as vehicles with autonomous capabilities become more prevalent, it is possible that the “driver” or primary occupant (i.e. the person responsible for driving the car when not being driven autonomously) may not be in a conventional seating position. For example, it is possible that the position and/or orientation of the seats in the vehicle may be adjusted when being driven autonomously such that the traditional cluster/instrument panel is no longer easily accessible or indeed visible to the occupant(s). To address these challenges the vehicle trim can be adapted to both display information and receive control inputs in identified regions when needed but otherwise appear to be blank.

WO2019/165441A1 discloses a vehicle interior component that provides a user interface that is projected through the surface of a vehicle trim by a light source such that it is only visible when needed. When the light source is not activated, the vehicle trim does not show the user interface and has the appearance of a wooden panel. A proximity sensor or touch sensor may be used to allow a user to activate the user interface.

US2019/0135199A1 discloses a vehicle interior component that also provides a user interface that is projected through the surface of a vehicle trim by a light source such that it is only visible when needed, for example on a door panel or arm rest of the vehicle. The user interface is illuminated through activation by a user to show where they need to interact with the vehicle trim in order to provide a control command and what the control command will do.

However, in spite of the abovementioned advances, there is a need to provide more intuitive means of controlling vehicle functions as well as displaying the operational characteristics of each vehicle function without confusing the vehicle occupants or cluttering the vehicle’s interior surfaces unnecessarily.

It is therefore an object of embodiments of the present invention to at least partially overcome the above issues.

Summary of the Invention

In broad terms, the invention relates to a vehicle trim comprising a cover layer having an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface of the cover layer may form a visible surface of the vehicle trim. The vehicle trim may comprise one or more sensing elements. The one or more sensing elements may be operable to detect a user input at the outer surface of the cover layer. The user input may be for controlling a vehicle function. The visible surface of the vehicle trim may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements. The visible surface of the vehicle trim may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements during control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements.

According to a first aspect there is provided a vehicle trim, comprising: a cover layer having an outer surface and an inner surface, the vehicle trim comprising one or more sensing elements operable to detect a user input at the outer surface of the cover layer for controlling a vehicle function; wherein the outer surface of the cover layer forms a visible surface of the vehicle trim; and wherein the visible surface of the vehicle trim comprises: a. no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements and b. no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements during control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements.

Advantageously, the invention provides a vehicle trim which is operable to act as an input for a user to control operation of a vehicle function, but which otherwise appears as a conventional, opaque trim panel both before and during control of the vehicle function. In this way, the design of the interior of the vehicle may be kept “clean” with minimal physical/virtual buttons or screens whilst retaining the same functionality in terms of control over a vehicle function and without distracting changes in the appearance of the vehicle trim. In addition, once vehicle occupants learn how to interact with the vehicle trim, then they have no trouble in controlling the vehicle functions without the visual indicia normally present on vehicle trims.

When used herein and throughout the specification the term “vehicle trim” is intended to cover surfaces of the vehicle, generally interior surfaces of the vehicle visible to an occupant. A vehicle trim may be a trim panel forming a surface of the vehicle. For instance, the vehicle trim can include a dashboard, centre console, door inserts, vehicle pillars, armrests, seatbacks, and other accessible surfaces of seats. In general, a vehicle trim is typically a decorative component, and may include an outermost layer which is aesthetically pleasing in terms of the design of the vehicle. For example, a vehicle trim may include a veneer (e.g. wooden veneer) or leather outermost layer forming an a surface within the vehicle. Further non-limiting examples of the vehicle trim are provided in relation to examples of vehicle functions below.

When used herein and throughout the specification, the phrase “visible indicia thereon” is intended to cover indicia specifically provided on the relevant component. This may take the form of imagery, icons, letters, words, numbers, symbols, logos, buttons or the like provided directly on the component which may, for example, be printed on or otherwise affixed to the component, or may be mechanically fixed or molded as part of the component. “Visible indicia thereon” is also intended to cover indicia which may be projected onto the component, e.g. through front projection, backlighting or the like.

The outer surface of the cover layer may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements after completion of the control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements. Thus, the vehicle trim remains effectively blank and the presence of the sensing elements is indistinguishable before, during and after control of the vehicle function. This may be preferred where the user can receive alternative confirmation that the vehicle function has been controlled, such as by directly observing the control (e.g. a window opening) or via an audible or tactile response.

The outer surface of the cover layer may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements for at least a given wait time after completion of the control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements. The wait time may be 0.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds, 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 2 seconds, or 5 seconds. Thus, the wait time provides for the user to control the sensing elements and move their hand away from them before any illumination of the cover layer that may otherwise be obscured by the user’s hand or confuse the user.

The vehicle trim, or outer surface of the cover layer, may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements for at least a given anticipation time prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements. The anticipation time may be at least 0.5 seconds. The anticipation time may be at least 1 second. The anticipation time may be at least 2 seconds. The anticipation time may be at least 5 seconds. The anticipation time may be at least 10 seconds. The anticipation time may extend from when the one or more sensing elements are activated. The anticipation time may extend from a previous user input detection by the one or more sensing elements, or from completion of a previous instance of control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements. The activation time may overlap with the wait time. The anticipation time may extend until a user input is detected by the one or more sensing elements. The vehicle trim may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements between successive detections of a user input via the one or more sensing elements, preferably between successive detections of a user input via the one or more sensing elements used to control the vehicle function. Thus, the trim provides a cleaner and more attractive trim panel that matches the rest of the vehicle interior without highlighting the fact that it contains sensing elements or can be used to control the vehicle function.

In one embodiment, the outer surface of the cover layer may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements at any time. In such embodiments, the cover layer is always blank and so while initial control of the vehicle function needs to be learned without visible feedback on the cover layer, once learned it becomes a natural and instinctive process while maintaining a clean, premium and luxury feel to the vehicle.

The outer surface of the cover layer may have a substantially constant appearance over time. For example, over the time that the user is interacting with the vehicle trim. Preferably, when the outer surface of the cover layer comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements, the outer surface has a substantially constant appearance. Preferably, one or more of the shape, colour and/or texture etc. of the outer surface is constant and so does not change. The outer surface of the cover layer may have a substantially constant appearance prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements. The outer surface of the cover layer may have a substantially constant appearance during control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements. The outer surface of the cover layer may have a substantially constant appearance after completion of the control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements. The outer surface of the cover layer may have a substantially constant appearance during the wait and/or anticipation times. This helps to provide a more premium and cleaner look and feel to the vehicle interior. Of course, where the vehicle incorporates ambient lighting equipment that may, for example, project a moving pattern or image over the vehicle trim, a “substantially constant appearance” in this context would mean that the vehicle trim is blended into the rest of the vehicle’s trim and includes the potentially changing ambient lighting pattern. This maintains the advantages of this feature that the vehicle trim is blended in with the rest of the vehicle such that it is a hidden user interface.

The cover layer may be formed from a rigid or a flexible material. In embodiments the cover layer may be made of a manmade or natural material. For example, in some embodiments the cover layer may be formed of a leather, fabric or cloth material. Where the outer cover is leather, it may be skived and/or it may be bicast natural leather. In other embodiments the cover layer may comprise a veneer. For example, in some embodiments the cover layer may comprise a wooden veneer. Thus the vehicle trim can be flexibly adapted to suit the rest of the vehicle interior or the part of the vehicle that it is installed in.

The cover layer may have a thickness of at least 0.1mm, or at least 0.5mm, or at least 1.0mm, or at least 2.5mm, or at least 5mm, or at least 7.5mm, for example. In embodiments the cover layer may have a thickness of no more than 1.0mm, or no more than 2.5mm, or no more than 5mm, or no more than 7.5mm, or no more than 10mm, for example. In embodiments, the cover layer may have a thickness of between 0.1mm and 2.0mm. Such thicknesses may correspond to a cover layer formed of a leather material, for example. In some embodiments the cover layer may have a thickness of between 0.1mm and 7mm. Such thickness may correspond to a cover layer formed of a fabric or cloth material, for example, and may include a foam layer connected, formed or otherwise associated with the fabric or cloth cover layer. In embodiments, the cover layer may have a thickness of between 0.2mm and 1mm.

The one or more sensing elements may comprise any one or more of: a capacitive sensor, a field-effect sensor, a resistive sensor, an ultrasonic sensor or an optical sensor. In use, the one or more sensing elements are operable to detect a user input at the outer surface of the cover layer. The user input may comprise a user directly (or indirectly in embodiments wherein a coating or outer cover is provided on the cover layer) touching the cover layer. Where used herein and throughout the term “touch” should be interpreted to cover both direct contact between a user and the component in question (i.e. the cover layer or any coating/outer cover applied thereto) and a user not necessarily physically contacting the component but moving within a given threshold distance of the sensing elements, which may result in a user input being determined even where there is a gap between the user and the outermost component of the vehicle trim - e.g. where the user input is detected as a gesture.

The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect the presence or absence of a user input via only one of the one or more sensing elements. Such an arrangement may be useful in embodiments wherein the vehicle function controllable via the vehicle trim is switchable between two modes (e.g. on and off).

The one or more sensing elements may comprise two or more sensing elements. In such embodiments the two or more sensing elements may be provided as an array of sensing elements forming a touch sensitive layer. The touch sensitive layer may be configured to perform any aspect or aspects of the functionality of the one or more sensing elements as described herein.

The one or more sensing elements may be operable to detect a moving user input. A moving user input may be detected by monitoring successive detections by adjacent (or at least proximal) sensing elements within an array. A moving user input may be a directional user input (e.g. a finger swipe). The directional user input may correspond to an incremental change in an operational characteristic of a vehicle function. The one or more sensing elements may configured to distinguish the direction of a directional user input in one, two or three dimensions. The one or more sensing elements may configured to distinguish the speed of a user input. Where the speed of the entire user input is about zero, the user input may be a stationary user input. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to distinguish the speed of different parts of a moving user input. A part of a moving user input may comprise a pause. A pause may correspond to a speed of about zero. A pause may be at the start of a moving user input. The vehicle trim may be configured to control the vehicle function differently depending on if there is a pause at the start of a moving user input or if there is not a pause at the start of a moving user input. Operational characteristics of vehicle functions are described further below. The two or more sensing elements may be configured to detect two or more user inputs simultaneously. This may be beneficial to allow complex control of different aspects of the vehicle function.

The one or more sensing elements may be operable to determine a duration of a user input, e.g. a duration of the user touching a particular location of the cover layer. The duration of the user input may relate to a corresponding control over the associated vehicle function, e.g. turn on/off, increase or decrease, enable or disable, etc. The visible surface of the vehicle trim may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements throughout the measured duration of the user input. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to only control the vehicle function if the detected user input has a duration of at least a duration threshold. The duration threshold may be 0.1 seconds, 0.25 seconds, 0.5 seconds, 1 second, or 2 seconds.

The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a user input in the form of a force applied to the vehicle trim. In such embodiments, the sensing elements may be force sensors. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a force magnitude of a user input. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to only control the vehicle function if the detected force magnitude is above a force threshold. The force threshold may be any suitable force indicative of a deliberate action by the user to control the vehicle function. Thus, the force threshold is more than the typical force applied by the user when moving around the vehicle in a normal manner or sitting on the vehicle trim. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to determine the direction of a force applied to the vehicle trim. The one or more sensing elements be configured to decompose a user input into one or more mutually orthogonal force directions. The, or each, force direction may represent a dimension of space. Preferably, the one or more sensing elements are configured to decompose a user input into three mutually orthogonal force directions, wherein each force direction represents a respective dimension of space. One force direction may be perpendicular to the outer surface of the cover layer. One or two force directions may be parallel to the outer surface of the cover layer. Thus, the vehicle trim can therefore determine the forces applied by the user and allow more intuitive and complex control of the vehicle functions, for example the pulling or pushing of vehicle furniture to control a vehicle furniture adjustment function to change the vehicle furniture position or orientation in the vehicle as described further below.

The one or more sensing elements may be provided on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle may be controlled by the user input. Features which modify the internal environment of a vehicle are discussed further below in relation to the various types of vehicle functions and associated operational characteristics. Thus, the sensing elements are intuitively provided next to a part of the vehicle that is controllable via the sensing elements.

The one or more sensing elements may be positioned within a maximum control distance of the feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle and is controlled by the user input. The maximum control distance may be 15 cm, 10 cm, 5 cm, 2 cm or 1 cm.

The position of one or more sensing element on the vehicle trim may be denoted by a sensing region. The sensing region may be denoted by a marker. The marker may be any suitable means for distinguishing the sensing region from the rest of the vehicle trim, such as a different colour section of trim or a particular stitching pattern. Where a marker is present, it does not indicate the vehicle function controllable by the vehicle. As such, the sensing region contains no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable by the one or more sensing element. Thus, a user can identify parts of the vehicle trim that are responsive to inputs.

In alternative embodiments, the vehicle trim may not comprise a marker denoting a sensing region. In such embodiments, the sensing region may be indistinguishable from the rest of the vehicle trim. Thus, the sensing region is more discreet to provide a cleaner appearance for the vehicle trim.

The cover layer may allow transmission of light therethrough. The cover layer may comprise a material which is at least partially transparent allowing for the transmission of light therethrough. Alternatively, the cover layer may be made from an opaque material. In such embodiments the cover layer may be perforated to allow for the transmission of light therethrough. Advantageously, providing a cover layer through which light may be transmitted allows for the vehicle trim to be “back-lit”, for example via a light source positioned behind the cover layer, or a light source optically coupled to the inner surface of the cover layer. In such embodiments, the cover layer may be configured such that it appears opaque to a user when not illuminated.

The vehicle trim may comprise a light source. The light source may be configured to direct light onto the inner surface of the cover layer to illuminate the cover layer. The outer surface of the cover layer may form a visible surface of the vehicle trim. The outer surface of the cover layer may appear opaque, to a user, when not illuminated by the light source. The light source may be operable to illuminate the cover layer on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle. The feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle may be controlled by a vehicle function.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle trim comprising: a cover layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, the cover layer allowing transmission of light therethrough; and a light source configured to direct light onto the inner surface of the cover layer to illuminate the cover layer; and wherein the outer surface of the cover layer forms a visible surface of the vehicle trim and appears opaque, to a user, when not illuminated by the light source, wherein the light source is operable to illuminate the cover layer on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle; the feature being controlled by a vehicle function.

Advantageously, the invention provides a vehicle trim which is operable to provide information to the user in a convenient and intuitive location next to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle, but which otherwise appears as a conventional, opaque trim panel. In this way, the design of the interior of the vehicle may be kept “clean” with minimal instrument dials or screens whilst retaining the same functionality in terms of the display of information.

In addition, such an arrangement may be particularly advantageous in an autonomous vehicle where the “driver” or primary occupant (i.e. the person responsible for driving the car when not being driven autonomously) may not be in a conventional seating position. For example, it is possible that the position and/or orientation of the seats in the vehicle may be adjusted when being driven autonomously such that the traditional cluster/instrument panel is no longer easily accessible or indeed visible to the occupant(s). Accordingly, providing information relating to a vehicle function via a trim panel may improve convenience and usability in such a scenario.

The light source may be operable to illuminate the cover layer in dependence on an operational characteristic of the vehicle function. Thus, the user may be provided with information relevant to the vehicle function at a convenient location at or adjacent the feature that is controlled by the vehicle function.

The light source may be operable to illuminate an illumination area of the cover layer. The illumination area may be at least partly within an illumination distance of the feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle. The illumination area may be completely within an illumination distance of the feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle. The illumination distance may be 15 cm, 10 cm, 5 cm, 2 cm or 1 cm. Thus, the cover layer is illuminated close to the relevant feature.

The illumination area may be any suitable shape or size. The illumination area may be circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular or irregularly shaped. The illumination area may change shape or size depending on an operational characteristic of the vehicle function. The illumination area may increase in size as the value associated with an operational characteristic increases. The illumination area may decrease in size as the value associated with an operational characteristic decreases. The illumination area may move depending on an operational characteristic of the vehicle function. The illumination area may be annular. The illumination area may be a section of an annulus. The centre of the annulus may correspond to the position of a feature which modifies the internal environment of the vehicle. The illumination area may correspond, at least in part, to a wedge or sector of a circle. The point of the wedge or sector may be at or adjacent a feature which modifies the internal environment of the vehicle.

The light source may illuminate the cover layer with two or more illumination areas, each having any one of the features of an illumination area as described above and not each necessarily having the same features.

The light source may be operable to illuminate the cover layer in an illumination colour. The illumination colour may change depending on an operational characteristic of the vehicle function. A vehicle function may be any controllable function that changes the internal environment of the vehicle. An operational characteristic of a vehicle function may be any controllable characteristic or state of the vehicle function. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle may be any feature of the vehicle that is associated with or controlled by a given vehicle function.

A vehicle function may be a heating, ventilation and air conditioning function (HVAC). The operational characteristics of HVAC may be any one or more of: an area of the vehicle setting, a temperature setting, a fan speed setting, and/or a mode of operation setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the HVAC may be a vent. The vehicle trim may comprise a vent surround. The vehicle trim may comprise a vent grill. The size of the illumination area may depend on the fan speed setting. The position of the illumination area may depend on the area of the vehicle setting. The illumination colour may change in dependence on the temperature setting.

A vehicle function may be a seat temperature function. The operational characteristics of the seat temperature function may be any one or more of a seat selection setting, a seat heating or cooling setting, a seat temperature setting, an intensity setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the seat temperature function may be a seat. The vehicle trim may comprise seat upholstery. The illumination colour may change in dependence on the seat temperature setting and/or the seat heating or cooling setting. The position of the illumination area may depend on the seat selection setting.

A vehicle function may be a media function. The operational characteristics of the media function may be a media playback status setting (e.g. play, pause, stop) volume setting, an audio balance setting, an audio equaliser setting, a display configuration setting and/or a media source setting. The display configuration setting may comprise a display brightness, contrast and/or sharpness. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the media function may be a display screen and/or a loudspeaker. The vehicle trim may comprise a display screen surround. The vehicle trim may comprise a loudspeaker surround. The vehicle trim may comprise a loudspeaker grill. The size of the illumination area may depend on the volume setting. The position of the illumination area may depend on the audio balance setting.

The media function may be an audio function. The operational characteristics of the audio function may be an audio playback status setting (e.g. play, pause, stop), a volume setting, an audio balance setting, an audio equaliser setting and/or an audio source setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the audio function may be a loudspeaker.

A vehicle function may be a communications function. The operational characteristics of the audio function may be a volume setting, an audio balance setting, an audio equaliser setting, a microphone mute setting, a camera activation setting, a call status setting and/or a selected contact setting. The call status setting may facilitate the starting or ending of calls. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the communications function may be any one or more of a microphone, a display screen, a camera and/or a loudspeaker. The vehicle trim may comprise a microphone surround. The vehicle trim may comprise a microphone grill. The vehicle trim may comprise a camera surround. The illumination colour may change in dependence on the microphone mute setting, the camera activation setting, and/or the call status setting.

The vehicle function may be a vehicle furniture adjustment function. The vehicle furniture may comprise any fittings or articles of the vehicle that the vehicle occupants use. The operational characteristics of the vehicle furniture adjustment function may be any one or more a position setting, an angle setting, and/or a state setting such as open/closed where applicable. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the vehicle furniture adjustment function may comprise any one or more of: the seats, instrument cluster; vehicle control devices such as the steering wheel, pedals, gear stick, handbrake and the like; seat headrests; seat armrests; footrests; doors; windows; rearview mirrors; sunvisors; a retractable/removable roof; or the like. The vehicle furniture adjustment function may also adjust or control external features such as bonnets; boot lids; wing mirrors; or the like. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to control the vehicle furniture adjustment function via detection of forces applied to the feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the vehicle furniture adjustment function. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to control the vehicle furniture adjustment function via detection of forces applied to the vehicle furniture.

A vehicle furniture adjustment function may be a window opening function. The operational characteristics of the window opening function may be any one or more of a window selection setting, a window position setting and/or a state of the window. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the window opening function may be a window. A window may comprise any window within the vehicle, for example a door window or a sunroof. The vehicle trim may comprise a window frame. The vehicle trim may comprise a vehicle A and/or B pillar. The vehicle trim may comprise a windowsill. The windowsill may be positioned directly beneath the window. The cover layer in the region of the windowsill may be at least partly perpendicular to a pane of the window. The size of the illumination area may depend on the window position setting. The position of the illumination area may depend on the window selection setting. The illumination colour may change in dependence on the state of the window.

A vehicle furniture adjustment function may be a seat position adjustment function. The operational characteristics of the seat position adjustment function may be any one or more of a seat selection setting, an adjustment direction setting, a seat position setting; a recline angle setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the seat position adjustment function may be a seat. The sensing region may be denoted by a marker in the form of seat stitching, for example a seat stitching pattern. The vehicle trim may comprise seat upholstery. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to control the seat adjustment function via detection of forces applied to the seat upholstery.

The vehicle function may be a lighting function. The operational characteristics of the lighting function may be any one or more of a light selection setting, an area of the vehicle setting, a brightness setting, a colour setting and/or a lighting theme setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the lighting function may be a vehicle light source. The vehicle trim may comprise a light cover. The vehicle trim may comprise a light surround. The position of the illumination area may depend on the area of the vehicle setting. The size of the illumination area may depend on the brightness setting. The illumination colour may change in dependence on the colour setting.

The lighting function may be an ambient lighting function. The operational characteristics of the ambient lighting function may be any one or more of a light selection setting, an area of the vehicle setting, a brightness setting, a colour setting and/or a lighting theme setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the ambient lighting function may be an ambient light source.

The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to define one or more interaction regions on the cover layer. The one or more sensing elements may be operable to detect a user input at an interaction region on the cover layer indicative of a request to control a respective vehicle function or operational characteristic of a vehicle function. An interaction region may define a specific type of user input, such as a direction of a moving user input, that results in a certain control of the vehicle function.

The light source may comprise a light plate having an inner major surface and an outer major surface facing the inner surface of the cover layer. The light source may comprise a light guide positioned adjacent to an edge of the light plate, the light guide being operable in use to direct light transmitted along it into the light plate. The inner major surface of the guide plate may be provided with a light reflective layer for directing light incident on it internally of the plate towards the outer major surface of the light plate.

The light source may comprise at least one light emitting member. The light emitting member may be selected from the group consisting of: a bulb, an LED, a micro-LED and a laser. The light emitting member may be configured in use to emit white light or light in one or more colours. The light emitting member may be a white LED or an RGB LED.

The light source may comprise a plurality of light emitting members. The plurality of light emitting members may be arranged as an array of light emitting members. Each of the array of light emitting members may correspond to a region of the cover layer of the vehicle trim. Each of the array of light emitting members may be individually controllable to illuminate the corresponding region of the cover layer. Where the light source comprises a light plate, then at least one light emitting member may be arranged in use to direct light directly into the light plate. Alternatively, where the light source comprises a light guide positioned adjacent an edge of a light plate, the light emitting member and the light guide may be configured such that light emitted from the light emitting member enters and is transmitted along the light guide.

Alternatively, the light emitting member may be a light emitting film configured to emit light directed onto the inner surface of the cover layer. The light emitting film may comprise an OLED. In embodiments, the light emitting film may be laminated to the inner surface of the cover layer or to a surface of a supporting substrate.

Where the light source comprises a light guide, the vehicle trim may be provided as a laminated trim panel with the cover layer secured directly or indirectly (e.g. via a supporting substrate) to the light guide. When laminated directly to the light guide, the light guide may function as a supporting substrate for the vehicle trim panel with no additional supporting substrate provided. Alternatively, the light guide may be secured (mechanically, adhesively or otherwise) to a supporting substrate, which may be a part of the vehicle structure such as a door substrate, body panel, dashboard or console.

Where the light emitting member is a light emitting film, the light emitting member may be attached to a supporting substrate on a side opposite from the cover layer.

In a first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a first control scheme. In a second control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a second control scheme. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a switching user input. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to switch from the first control mode to the second control mode in response to detection of the switching user input. The light source may be operable to illuminate the cover layer to indicate the one or more sensing elements are in the second control mode.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle trim, comprising: a cover layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, the cover layer allowing transmission of light therethrough; and a light source configured to direct light onto the inner surface of the cover layer to illuminate the cover layer; and wherein the outer surface of the cover layer forms a visible surface of the vehicle trim and appears opaque, to a user, when not illuminated by the light source, the vehicle trim comprising one or more sensing elements operable to detect a user input at the outer surface of the cover layer for controlling a vehicle function; wherein in a first control mode the one or more sensing elements are configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a first control scheme and in a second control mode the one or more sensing elements are configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a second control scheme, wherein the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a switching user input and switch from the first control mode to the second control mode in response to detection of the switching user input, wherein the light source is operable to illuminate the cover layer to indicate the one or more sensing elements are in the second control mode.

Beneficially, the invention provides for a vehicle trim which is operable to act as an input for a user to control operation of a vehicle function in at least two different ways. As the vehicle trim is configured to respond differently when in the first or second control modes, the control schemes can be optimised for different ways of interacting with the vehicle trim. For example, in the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect the most common or more simple user inputs such as the turning on or off of a vehicle function. At the user’s convenience they can then switch to the second control mode which may allow for more complex, or less commonly used, user inputs to be received. This maximises user convenience when interacting with the vehicle trim while retaining full control of the vehicle function if required.

In the first control mode, the visible surface of the vehicle trim may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements, and preferably a constant appearance, prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements. In the first control mode, the visible surface of the vehicle trim may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements, and preferably a constant appearance, during control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements. At all times when in the first control mode, the visible surface of the vehicle trim may comprise no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements, and preferably a constant appearance. Thus, while in the first control mode the invention provides similar advantages to the first aspect above in that the user can intuitively interact with the vehicle trim to control the vehicle function without visible indicia appearing and preferably without changes in the appearance of the trim.

Alternatively, in the first control mode, the light source may be operable to illuminate the cover layer to indicate the vehicle function and/or operational characteristic of the vehicle function controllable when in the first control mode. This can assist a user who is less familiar with controlling the vehicle or where the user is configuring the vehicle settings and may be changing which vehicle function/operational characteristic is controlled in the first control mode.

The first control mode and the second control mode may allow control of the same vehicle function. The first control mode and the second control mode may only allow control the same vehicle function. Thus, the first and second control modes allow the user to control the vehicle function in different ways which can allow for a better user experience.

The first control mode may allow control of one operational characteristic of the vehicle function. The first control mode may allow control of only one operational characteristic of the vehicle function at one time. The vehicle function and/or operational characteristic controllable by the first control mode may be changeable. Thus, the first control mode provides for quick and convenient control of a certain operational characteristic which can be customised by the user if required.

The second control mode may be configured to provide finer control of the vehicle function as compared to the first control mode. Thus, as the vehicle trim is illuminated in the second control mode, it is better suited (than the first control mode) to finer control where the user might need to make a user input in a specific place to control the vehicle function as desired.

The second control mode may allow control of one or more operational characteristics of the vehicle function. The second control mode may allow control of two or more operational characteristics of the vehicle function. The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify a location on the cover layer corresponding to control of one, or each, of the one or more operational characteristics controllable in the second control mode. The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify a location on the cover layer corresponding to control of one, or each, of the two or more operational characteristics controllable in the second control mode. Thus, as the vehicle trim is illuminated, the second control mode is more suited to allowing control of the different operational characteristics of a vehicle function by illuminating the cover layer to guide the user’s interactions with the vehicle trim.

The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a selection user input. The selection user input may select an operational characteristic of the vehicle function to be controlled in the second control mode. The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify where the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a selection user input. The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify one or more interaction regions where the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a selection user input. Thus, the second control mode can allow the user to control different aspects of a vehicle function.

The operational characteristic controlled in the first control mode may remain the same irrespective of the detection of a selection user input when in the second control mode. Thus, the first control mode provides a consistent control scheme that the user can reliably use.

The switching user input may be any suitable detected user input that is distinguishable from user inputs used to control the vehicle function in the first control mode. The switching user input may comprise a moving user input. The switching user input may be detected in a certain location of the vehicle trim. The switching user input may comprise two or more user inputs. The switching user input may comprise two or more user inputs detected within a switch detection time. The switch detection time may be no more than 2 seconds, 1 second, 0.5 seconds, or 0.2 seconds. The switching user input may comprise a user input with a duration that is at least a switch duration. The switch duration may be 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 2 seconds, or 5 seconds. Thus, the switching user input can be flexibly configured to ensure it does not get misinterpreted as a user input for controlling the vehicle function and vice versa. The vehicle trim may be provided in the first control mode. The vehicle trim may be initially provided in the first control mode. The first control mode may be the default control mode for the one or more sensing elements. Thus, the user is able to easily interact via the first control mode which typically gives access to more commonly used or simple control commands.

The vehicle trim may be operable to automatically switch from the second control mode to the first control mode. The vehicle trim may automatically switch from the second control mode to the first control mode in the absence of the detection of a user input by the one or more sensing elements for a switching time. The switching time may be at least 0.1 seconds, 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 2 seconds or 5 seconds. Thus, the vehicle trim is quickly switched back to the first control mode.

The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a reset user input and switch from the second control mode to the first control mode. The reset user input may be any suitable detected user input that is distinguishable from user inputs used to control the vehicle function in the second control mode. The reset user input may be detected in a certain location of the vehicle trim. The reset user input may comprise a moving user input. The reset user input may comprise two or more user inputs. The reset user input may comprise two or more user inputs detected within a reset detection time. The reset detection time may be no more than 2 seconds, 1 second, 0.5 seconds, or 0.2 seconds. The reset user input may comprise a user input with a duration that is at least a reset duration. The reset duration may be 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 2 seconds, or 5 seconds. The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify an interaction region corresponding to the reset user input. Thus, the reset user input can be flexibly configured to ensure it does not get misinterpreted as a user input for controlling the vehicle function and vice versa.

Where the vehicle function is HVAC, in the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a moving user input across or adjacent to a vent surround or vent grill. In the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to increase or decrease the temperature setting in response to detection of a moving user input. In the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to increase or decrease the fan speed setting in response to detection of a moving user input. The moving user input may be a moving user input across or adjacent to the vent surround or vent grill.

Where the vehicle function is HVAC, the switching user input may be a stationary user input. The switching user input may be received on the on the vent surround.

Where the vehicle function is HVAC, in the second control mode the light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to define two or more interaction regions. One of the two or more interaction regions may correspond to the fan speed setting. One of the two or more interaction regions may correspond to the temperature setting. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to select either the fan speed setting or the temperature setting for control in dependence on if a user input is detected in one of the two or more interaction regions. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a moving user input and control either the fan speed setting or temperature setting depending on which has been selected for control.

Where the vehicle function is a media or audio function, in the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a moving user input across or adjacent a loudspeaker surround or loudspeaker grill. In the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to increment a media or audio source setting in response to detection of a moving user input, for example a moving user input across or adjacent the loudspeaker surround or loudspeaker grill. Thus, the currently playing track, radio station or channel can be changed.

Where the vehicle function is a media or audio function, the switching user input may be a stationary user input. The switching user input may be received on the on the loudspeaker surround.

Where the vehicle function is a media or audio function, in the second control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a moving user input across or adjacent a loudspeaker surround or loudspeaker grill. In the second control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to distinguish the direction of the moving user input in one or preferably two dimensions. The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to define two or more interaction regions corresponding to different specific user inputs recognisable in the second control mode. In the second control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to control a media or audio source setting in response to detection of a moving user input, for example a moving user input across or adjacent the loudspeaker surround or loudspeaker grill. Thus, the user can select a different genre or different source such as changing from a radio to a CD, DVD or online streaming service.

Where the vehicle function is a window opening function, in the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect a moving user input. In the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect the speed of parts of a moving user input. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to detect if a moving user input starts with a pause. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to completely open or close the window in response to a moving user input that doesn’t start with a pause. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to control the window position setting in response to a moving user input that starts with a pause. Thus, the user can easily completely open the window, or can apply a pause for finer control of the window.

Where the vehicle function is a window opening function, the switching user input may be a stationary user input. The switching user input may be received on the windowsill.

Where the vehicle function is a window opening function, in the second control mode the light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to define two or more interaction regions each corresponding to an option of the window selection setting. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to select a window selection setting for control of a specific window in dependence on if a user input is detected in one of the two or more interaction regions. The second control mode may allow control of the selected window as per the first control mode. Thus, the user can select which window they’d like to control in the second control mode.

Where the vehicle function is a seat position adjustment function, in the first control mode the one or more sensing elements may be configured to determine a direction of a force applied to the vehicle trim and control the seat position setting and/or recline angle setting in dependence on the direction of the force. The one or more sensing elements may only control the seat position adjustment function if the force magnitude associated with the user input is greater than a force threshold. The one or more sensing elements may only control the seat position adjustment function if the force threshold is exceeded for at least a force duration threshold. The force threshold may be any suitable force indicative of a deliberate action by the user to control the vehicle function. The force duration threshold may be 0.5 seconds, 1 second or 2 seconds. Thus, the user can quickly and intuitively adjust the seat position/angle by simply pushing/pulling it.

Where the vehicle function is a seat position adjustment function, the switching user input may comprise a user input of duration less than 1 second. The switching user input may be a stationary user input. The switching user input may comprise a user input with a force magnitude less than the threshold value. Where the vehicle function is a seat position adjustment function, in the second control mode the light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to define two or more interaction regions each corresponding to a different direction in which the seat position setting and/or recline angle setting can be changed. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to change the seat position setting and/or recline angle setting depending on in which of the two or more interaction regions a user input is detected. Thus, the user can control the seat with more certainty.

Where the vehicle function is a lighting function, in the first control mode, the vehicle trim may be configured to illuminate the vehicle trim on detection of a user input to define an interaction region. The vehicle trim may be configured to detect a user input in the interaction region. In response to a user input in the interaction region, the light source may be configured to illuminate the vehicle trim to indicate two or more interaction regions associated with the lighting theme setting. The vehicle trim may be configured to change the lighting theme setting in response to a user input in one of the two or more interaction regions.

Where the vehicle function is a lighting function, the switching user input may be a moving user input. The switching user input may be received on a vehicle waist rail.

Where the vehicle function is a lighting function, in the second control mode, the light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer to define two or more interaction regions corresponding to the colour setting. Each interaction region may have an illumination colour corresponding to a possible value (or colour) of the colour setting. The interaction regions may be arranged adjacently to give the effect of a rainbow or colour palette. The vehicle trim may be configured to receive a user input in one interaction region and update the colour setting of the lighting function.

The vehicle trim may have a layered structure.

The vehicle trim may comprise a coating, such as a lacquer, on the outer surface of the cover layer. The coating may comprise an open pore coating. The coating may comprise a high gloss coating. The coating may comprise a thermoformed film.

Alternatively, the vehicle trim may comprise an outer cover laminated to the cover layer.

The vehicle trim may comprise a supporting substrate. The supporting substrate may act as a spacer layer between the cover layer and the light source. For example, in some embodiments the cover layer may be directly or indirectly fixed (mechanically, adhesively or otherwise) at its inner surface to an outer surface of the supporting substrate. Similarly, the light source (e.g. a light guide) may be directly or indirectly fixed (mechanically, adhesively or otherwise) at its outer surface to an inner surface of the supporting substrate.

The supporting substrate may be at least partially transparent. The supporting substrate may allow for light to be transmitted therethrough, for example, from the light source onto an inner surface of the cover layer.

The supporting substrate may be configured to act as a light guide for directing light from an optically coupled light source onto the inner surface of the cover layer.

The one or more sensing elements may be positioned between the cover layer and light source. The one or more sensing elements may be positioned between the supporting substrate and light source. The one or more sensing elements may be positioned within a touch sensitive layer. The one or more sensing elements/touch sensitive layer may allow for light to be transmitted therethrough, for example, from the light source onto an inner surface of the cover layer and optionally via the supporting substrate.

The one or more sensing elements/touch sensitive layer may be configured to act as a light guide for directing light from an optically coupled light source onto the inner surface of the cover layer optionally via the supporting substrate. As discussed herein, one or more layers of the vehicle trim may be fixed using an adhesive. Any suitable adhesive may be used. In presently preferred embodiments the adhesive is at least partially transparent.

In alternative embodiments one or more layers of the vehicle trim may be fixed using mechanical connection means. The mechanical connection means may comprise any suitable means such as clips, screws and the like. The mechanical connection means may be provided about the periphery of the vehicle trim.

The vehicle trims of the first to third aspects may include any one or more of the features of a vehicle trim as defined in broad terms or according to any of the other of the first to third aspects set out above. The vehicle trims of the first to third aspects may include any one or more of the optional features of a vehicle trim without necessarily including all the features required of them. That is to say, an optional feature which happens to be set out following one particular aspect does not necessarily apply only to that aspect, so, for example, the disclosure provides for a vehicle trim, comprising: a cover layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, the cover layer allowing transmission of light therethrough; and a light source configured to direct light onto the inner surface of the cover layer to illuminate the cover layer; and wherein the outer surface of the cover layer forms a visible surface of the vehicle trim and appears opaque, to a user, when not illuminated by the light source, the vehicle trim comprising one or more sensing elements operable to detect a user input at the outer surface of the cover layer for controlling a vehicle function; wherein in a first control mode the one or more sensing elements are configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a first control scheme and in a second control mode the one or more sensing elements are configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a second control scheme, wherein the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a switching user input and switch from the first control mode to the second control mode in response to detection of the switching user input, wherein the light source is operable to illuminate the cover layer to indicate the one or more sensing elements are in the second control mode according to the third aspect wherein the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a user input in the form of a force applied to the vehicle trim as described in relation to the first aspect. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for controlling the operation of a vehicle function via the vehicle trim of the first aspect of the invention, the control system comprising one or more controllers and being configured to: receive an input signal from one or more sensing elements indicative of a user request to control the vehicle function; generate a control signal comprising one or more instructions for controlling the vehicle function; and output the control signal to the vehicle function for controlling the vehicle function in accordance with the user request.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for illuminating a vehicle trim of the second aspect of the invention, the control system comprising one or more controllers and being configured to: generate a control signal comprising one or more instructions for illuminating the vehicle trim on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle; and output the control signal to the light source.

The one or more controllers may be configured to receive an operational signal indicative of the operational characteristic of a vehicle function and generate the control signal in dependence on the operational signal.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for illuminating a vehicle trim and controlling the operation of a vehicle function via the vehicle trim, wherein the vehicle trim is the vehicle trim of the third aspect of the present invention, the control system comprising one or more controllers and being configured to: receive an input signal from one or more sensing elements indicative of a user request to control the vehicle function; generate a control signal comprising one or more instructions for controlling the vehicle function; output the control signal to the vehicle function for controlling the vehicle function in accordance with the user request; receive an input signal indicative of the vehicle trim being in the second control mode; generate a control signal comprising one or more instructions for illuminating the vehicle trim; and output the control signal to the light source.

The one or more controllers of the fourth to sixth aspects may be configured to implement the functionality of any one or more of the features, optional or otherwise, of the first to third aspects above. The control systems of the fourth to sixth aspects of the present invention may include any one or more features, optional or otherwise, of the first to sixth aspects as set out above.

The one or more controllers of the fourth to sixth aspects may be configured to implement any one or more of the method steps, optional or otherwise, of the eighth to tenth aspects of the invention as described below.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising the vehicle trim of the first, second or third aspects, or the control system of the fourth, fifth or sixth aspects.

The vehicle may be an automobile.

The vehicle of the seventh aspect of the present invention may include any one or more features, optional or otherwise, of the first to sixth aspects as set out above.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for controlling operation of a vehicle function via a vehicle trim, the method comprising: setting the vehicle trim to a blank state in which no visible indicia representative of the vehicle function controllable via the vehicle trim is displayed on the vehicle trim; receiving a user input at one or more sensing elements of the vehicle trim indicative of a user request to control operation of the vehicle function; and controlling the vehicle function in accordance with the user request, wherein the vehicle trim is maintained in the blank state during control of the vehicle function.

The blank state may be maintained after completion of the control of the vehicle function.

The vehicle trim may be the trim of the first aspect of the invention.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for illuminating the vehicle trim, the method comprising: instructing a light source to illuminate a cover layer of the vehicle trim, wherein the light source is operable to illuminate the cover layer on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle and the feature being controlled by a vehicle function.

The method may comprise receiving an operational characteristic of the vehicle function and instructing the light source to illuminate the cover layer in dependence on the operational characteristic.

The vehicle trim may be the trim of the second aspect of the invention. According to a tenth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for controlling operation of a vehicle function via a vehicle trim and illuminating the vehicle trim, the method comprising: determining if the vehicle trim is in a first control mode or a second control mode; receiving a user input at one or more sensing elements of the vehicle trim indicative of a user request to control operation of the vehicle function; controlling the vehicle function in accordance with the user request and either a first control scheme if the vehicle trim is in the first control mode or a second control scheme if the vehicle trim is in the second control mode; and instructing a light source to illuminate a cover layer of the vehicle trim to indicate when the vehicle trim is in the second control mode, and in the first control mode the visible surface of the vehicle trim comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements.

The vehicle trim may be the vehicle trim according to the third aspect above.

The method may comprise providing the vehicle trim in the first control mode.

In the first control mode, the method may comprise setting the vehicle trim into a blank state in which no visible indicia representative of the vehicle function controllable via the vehicle trim is displayed on the vehicle trim.

The method may comprise determining if a user input is a switching user input. The method may comprise switching from the first control mode to the second control mode if a switching user input is detected.

The method may comprise translating a user input into a user request for controlling the vehicle function. The method may comprise controlling the vehicle function according to the user request.

The method may comprise illuminating the cover layer on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle, preferably when in the second control mode.

The method may comprise waiting for a user input or else a given time period to elapse, for example the reset time. The method may comprise detecting a reset user input. The method may comprise switching from the second control mode to the first control mode if a reset user input is detected or if the reset time elapses. The method may comprise illuminating the cover layer to denote one or more interaction regions. The method may comprise selecting an operational characteristic and/or vehicle function in dependence on a received user input. The method may comprise controlling a selected operational characteristic and/or vehicle function. The method may comprise instructing the light source to illuminate the cover layer in dependence on a selected operational characteristic and/or vehicle function.

The method may comprise controlling a selected operational characteristic and/or vehicle function in dependence on a received user input.

Each of the methods of the eighth to tenth aspects of the present invention may include any one or more features, optional or otherwise, of the other of the eighth to tenth aspects as set out above. Each of the methods of the eighth to tenth aspects of the present invention may include any one or more features, optional or otherwise, of the first to sixth aspects as set out above.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 is a schematic side cross sectional view of a first embodiment of a vehicle trim;

Figure 2 is a view of the vehicle trim of Figure 1 in the second control mode and within a vehicle;

Figure 3 is a view of the vehicle trim of Figure 1 in the first control mode and within a vehicle;

Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the interaction of the vehicle trim of Figure 1 with a controller and vehicle function; and

Figure 5 is a schematic flow diagram showing a method of operation for a second embodiment of a vehicle trim.

Referring to Figure 1, a first embodiment of a vehicle trim 10 according to the invention is shown. The vehicle trim 10 has a layered structure and includes a coating 22 forming an outer surface of the vehicle trim 10 and a light reflective layer 26 forming an opposite inner surface of the vehicle trim 10. The intervening layers from the light reflective layer 26 out to the coating 22 are: a light plate 18 optically coupled to a light emitting member 20 to form a light source; a touch sensitive layer 14; a supporting substrate 24; and a cover layer 12. The light emitting member 20 may be a bulb, LED, laser or the like. As will be appreciated, the light emitting member 20 can be directly coupled to the light plate 18 or indirectly coupled via a light guide or the like. In use, the light source is operable to direct light onto the inner surface of the cover layer 12 to illuminate the cover layer 12 via the touch sensitive layer 14 and supporting substrate 24, as described herein. The light reflective layer 26 is provided at an inner surface of the light plate 18.

The cover layer 12 can be made of any suitable material which may be flexible or substantially rigid. For example, where the cover layer 12 is formed of a flexible material this may consist of a fabric, cloth or leather material, for example. However, in the illustrated embodiment the cover layer 12 comprises a rigid material in the form of a veneer (e.g. a wooden veneer).

In this embodiment, the coating 22 is provided on the outer surface of the cover layer 12 primarily for protective purposes. The coating 22 comprises a lacquer which, is at least partially transparent allowing the transmission of light therethrough. It will be appreciated that such a coating may not be necessary for some cover layer materials. For example, where the cover layer 12 comprises a flexible material such as fabric, cloth or leather, such a coating may not be necessary.

As mentioned above, the vehicle trim 10 additionally includes a supporting substrate 24 to which both the cover layer 12 and the touch sensitive layer 14 are suitably fixed. Specifically, the cover layer 12 and touch sensitive layer 14 are fixed to the supporting substrate 24 such that the inner surface of the cover layer faces an outer surface of the substrate 24, and an inner surface of the substrate 24 faces the outer surface of the touch sensitive layer 14. Here, the cover layer 12 and touch sensitive layer 14 are secured by means of an adhesive to the supporting substrate 24, although mechanical coupling of the layers 12, 14 to the substrate 24 is equally applicable.

The supporting substrate 24 can be made of any suitable generally rigid material which may include, for example, a plastics or metallic material. In some embodiments the supporting substrate 24 can be made of wood, such as timber, for example, however in this embodiment the supporting substrate 24 must be at least partially transparent allowing for the transmission of light therethrough.

The outer surface of the touch sensitive layer 14 includes one or more sensing elements 14a which are operable, in use, to detect a user input at the outer surface of the cover layer 12 for controlling a vehicle function, for example changing the value of an operational characteristic of a vehicle function as described further below. For instance, the touch sensitive layer 14 can include two or more sensing elements 14a arranged as an array of sensing elements 14a. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more sensing elements 14a comprise a capacitive sensor operable to detect a user input in the form of a user touching the outer surface of the cover layer 12 via the coating 22.

The touch sensitive layer 14 is configured to detect a variety of user inputs via the sensing elements 14a, a few non-limiting examples of different user input detections are provided below.

The touch sensitive layer 14 may be configured to detect the presence or absence via one of the one or more sensing elements 14a.

The touch sensitive layer 14 may be configured to detect a moving user input by monitoring successive detections by adjacent/proximal sensing elements 14a. The moving user input could be a finger swipe across the vehicle trim 10 coating 22/cover layer 12.

The touch sensitive layer 14 may be configured to detect two or more user inputs simultaneously by monitoring detections from multiple sensing elements 14a.

The touch sensitive layer 14 may be operable to determine a duration of a user input, e.g. a duration of the user touching a particular location of the cover layer 12. The duration of the user input may relate to a corresponding control over the associated vehicle function, e.g. turn on/off, increase or decrease, enable or disable, etc.

The touch sensitive layer 14 may be configured to detect a user input in the form of a force applied to the vehicle trim 10 and decompose that force into different force directions representative of the dimensions of space. In addition, touch sensitive layer 14 may be configured to determine a force magnitude of the user input. In such examples, the sensing elements 14a may be force sensors.

The light emitting member 20 may be capable of emitting white light or light in one or more colours. For example, the light emitting member 20 could be an RGB LED. There could be more than one light emitting member 20 coupled to the light plate 18 and in other embodiments there are one or more light emitting members 20 optically coupled to the light plate 18.

The light source is configured such that in use light from the light emitting member 20 is directed into the light plate 18 which is subsequently directed onto the inner surface of the cover layer 12. In the illustrated embodiment, this means the light must be directed through a transparent (or at least partially transparent) touch sensitive layer 14 and supporting substrate 24, along with any adhesives or other couplings provided therebetween. Where the cover layer 12 is transparent (or at least partly transparent), the light passes through so as to be visible inside the vehicle. In this way, the vehicle trim 10 may be “back-lit”, as desired, and provide information indicative of an operational characteristic of the vehicle function as described herein.

The vehicle function can include any suitable vehicle function and the invention is not limited in this sense. The light source may be configured to illuminate the cover layer 12 on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle that the vehicle trim 10 is installed within, as described further below.

In this embodiment, the vehicle trim 10 comprises a first control mode in which the one or more sensing elements 14a control the vehicle function according to a first control scheme and a second control mode in which the one or more sensing elements 14a the control the vehicle function according to a second control scheme. The one or more sensing elements 14a are also configured to detect a switching user input and then in response, switch from the first control mode to the second control mode.

In this embodiment, in the first control mode, the visible surface of the vehicle trim 10 comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements. So there is no visible indicia before a detection of a user input, during control of the vehicle function by the user input and also after control of the vehicle function. This helps the design of the interior of the vehicle to be kept “clean” with minimal physical/virtual buttons or screens whilst retaining the same functionality in terms of control over a vehicle function and without distracting changes in the appearance of the vehicle trim 10.

This effect is further enhanced as even the position of the sensing elements on the vehicle trim 10 is indistinguishable. There is no marker on the vehicle trim 10 indicating a sensing region in which the sensing elements are positioned.

As there is no visible indicia on the surface of the vehicle trim 10 the first control mode is best suited to detection of simple commands. In addition, in this embodiment, the first control mode is the “default” control mode, that is, the vehicle trim 10 is provided in this mode and also when in the second control mode the vehicle trim 10 automatically switches back to the first control mode if there are no user detections for a switching time of 1 second. The first control mode is therefore also suited to more commonly used commands. As such, the first control mode may be used for simple and common commands which provide confirmation to the vehicle occupant without need for visible indicia to appear on the vehicle trim 10, like fully opening/closing a window or toggling the state of a vehicle function, such as turning something on or off or activating/deactivating a camera while in a video call.

In this embodiment, the second control mode is activated by detection of a switching user input. The switching user input corresponds to a user input with a measured duration of at least a switch duration of 1 second. This corresponds to a pressing and holding down on the cover layer 12 for at least 1 second by the vehicle occupant.

In this embodiment, the second control mode provides a finer or alternative way of controlling the same vehicle function as the first control mode. For example, where the first control mode allows a user to open/close a window, the second control mode may allow the user to set how far open the window is using a window position setting or select a different window to control using a window selection setting.

In this embodiment, in the second control mode the light source is configured to illuminate the cover layer 12 in dependence on an operational state or characteristic of the vehicle function. The light source can be configured such that it is operable to control (e.g. adjust) the illumination of the cover layer 12 in dependence on one or more changes in the operation of the vehicle function. This allows more precise control of a vehicle function as the user can be guided to interact with a specific point on the cover layer to set an operational characteristic to a certain value or make some other selection.

In embodiments the light source may be operable to adjust one or more of a presence, illumination position, illumination area (e.g. a size and/or shape), brightness and/or illumination colour of light directed onto the cover layer 12 in dependence on the operation of the vehicle function. In some cases the light source is configured such that it may illuminate the cover layer 12 to provide an indication to the user of an incremental change in the vehicle function, for example, by progressively increasing or decreasing the size of the illumination area.

In this embodiment, in the second control mode, the light source is configured to illuminate the cover layer on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the vehicle function controllable. In addition, the one or more sensing elements are positioned on or adjacent to the feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the vehicle function controllable. For example, where the HVAC is controlled, the light source may illuminate the cover layer on or adjacent to a vent, and the one or more sensing elements may also be positioned adjacent to the vent.

Referring to Figure 2, the vehicle trim 10 is installed in the dashboard of a vehicle 300. The vehicle 300 is an automobile comprising a steering wheel 302 and HVAC vents 304a, 304b on either side of the dashboard. In this embodiment, the light source is configured to illuminate the vehicle trim with one or more illumination areas 30 each annular in shape and emanating from a vent 304a, 304b. The size and separation of the illumination areas corresponds to the fan speed setting and the illumination colour corresponds to the temperature setting of the HVAC. This allows functionality in the second control mode such as pressing and moving a finger along the vehicle trim to change the fan speed setting while the corresponding illumination areas change in real time to reflect the control of the HVAC. In this embodiment, the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a reset user input and switch from the second control mode to the first control mode. In this embodiment, a reset user input constitutes three simultaneous user inputs (taps) within 2 seconds. Thus the user can easily change back to the first control mode when they have finished controlling the vehicle function in the second control mode.

Referring to Figure 3, in the above example of the HVAC vents 304a, 304b, after resetting back to the first control mode, the light source does not illuminate the vehicle trim 10. The one or more sensing elements are then configured to detect a moving user input across or adjacent to the vent and increase or decrease a temperature setting in response.

A schematic overview of the invention is shown in Figure 3. In particular, Figure 3 illustrates a control system 100 of the invention and its operational use with vehicle trim 10 and/or a vehicle function 50.

Specifically, Figure 3 illustrates a control system in the form of a controller 100 having an electronic processor 102. The processor 102 is operably coupled to an input in the form of electrical input 104 for receiving an input signal 112, 113.

In the illustrated embodiment, the input signal 112 is received from a control unit associated with the vehicle function 50. The input signal 112 can include information relating to the operational characteristic of the vehicle function 50.

The input signal 113 is received from the touch sensitive layer 14 of the vehicle trim 10. For instance, the input signal 113 can comprise information relating to the location, duration, direction, etc. of a user touch at the cover layer 12.

The controller 100 includes an electronic memory device 106 electrically coupled to the processor 102 and includes instructions 108 stored therein. The instructions 108 may relate to operating instructions relating to operation of components of the vehicle trim 10 (e.g. the light emitting member 20) and/or the vehicle function 50 and further may depend on if the first control mode or second control mode is active. In use, the processor 102 is configured to access the memory device 106 and execute the instructions 108 in order to generate a control signal 114, 116 for controlling operation of the light emitting member 120 and the vehicle function 50, respectively.

The control signals 114, 116 are output via electrical output 110.

As discussed, the controller 100 is configured to receive an input signal 112 from the vehicle function 50. The processor 102 is configured to analyse the input signal 112 and determine an operational characteristic of the vehicle function 50 therefrom. Upon such a determination, the controller may generate and output the control signal 114 for controlling operation of the light emitting member 20 to illuminate the cover layer 12 in dependence on the operational characteristic in one or more ways discussed herein.

The controller 100 is additionally configured to receive an input signal 113 from the touch sensitive layer 14, or from a separate control unit associated with touch sensitive layer 14. The processor 102 is configured to analyse the input signal 114 and determine a user input therefrom, for example to determine a moving or directional user input (e.g. a finger swipe) corresponding to successive detections by adjacent (or at least proximal) sensing elements, or user inputs at multiple sensing elements of the touch sensitive layer 14. The processor 102 is configured to analyse the input signal 114 and determine a user request therefrom. Upon such a determination, the controller may generate and output the control signal 116 for controlling the vehicle function 50 in accordance with the user request, e.g. to enable or disable the function or to increase/decrease an operational characteristic of the function (e.g. volume, brightness, etc.).

A second embodiment of a vehicle trim has all the same features as the first embodiment above except that in the first control mode the user is able to control the HVAC fan speed setting and in the second control mode the user is able to select whether to control the fan speed setting or temperature setting. A method of controlling and illuminating the vehicle trim as per the second embodiment is shown in Figure 5 and described below.

The vehicle trim is initially provided in the first control mode (denoted by A in Figure 5) and the method begins at step S10. At step S10, the light source is instructed to set the vehicle trim into a blank state in which no visible indicia representative of the vehicle function is displayed on the vehicle trim. The method then moves to step Si l.

At step Si l, a user input is detected by the one or more sensing elements. At step Si l, the user input is analysed to determine if it is a switching user input or not. In this example, a switching user input is an input with a duration of at least 1 second. If it is a switching user input, the method moves to step S13 and if not, step S12.

In one embodiment, at S10, the one or more sensing elements may be activated or turned on. The vehicle trim may then remain in the blank state indefinitely until a user input is detected at Si l as described below. This period can be characterised by an anticipation time which is the time the vehicle trim spends in the blank state prior to detection of a user input. The anticipation time is typically at least 10 seconds to provide a clean and premium vehicle interior without unnecessary clutter on the trim.

At step S12, the user input is analysed to translate it into a user request for controlling the vehicle function. For example, a moving user input may be detected and analysed to determine the direction of a finger swipe. The direction of the finger swipe may correspond to either increasing (e.g. swipe up) or decreasing (e.g. swipe down) the fan speed setting. Once the user request is determined, the vehicle function is controlled according to it and the method moves back to step S10.

In one embodiment, after S12, the trim remains in the blank state after control of the vehicle function. Typically, after detection of an input as described in S12, the blank state will persist for at least a given wait time, e.g. 2 seconds. The anticipation time for the next input may also begin as soon as the control of the vehicle function has ceased, so the wait and anticipation times may overlap.

In one example, the trim is always in the blank state and does not comprise visible indicia thereon at any time, for example where the control system only comprises steps S10 to S 12 in a loop. In one preferred embodiment, while in the first control mode, the trim is always in the blank state. These features are advantageous for example in relation to opening/closing a window of a vehicle as feedback can be observed from the window being moved. Returning to the illustrated embodiment, at step S13, a switching user input instructs the vehicle trim to switch to the second control mode (denoted by B in Figure 5) and so the method moves to step S20.

At step S20, the light source is instructed to illuminate the cover layer 12 to indicate that the vehicle trim is in the second control mode. In this example this involves instructing the light source to display two interaction regions, one corresponding to the fan speed setting and the other corresponding to the temperature setting. The method then moves to step S21.

At step S21, the method involves waiting for either detection of a selection user input at either of the interaction regions, detection of a reset user input, or else for the reset time to elapse. If a user input is detected in the interaction region corresponding to the fan speed setting the method moves to step S22. If a user input is detected in the interaction region corresponding to the temperature setting the method moves to step S23. If a reset user input is detected or the reset time elapses, the method moves to step S24.

At step S22, the fan speed setting has been selected and consequently the method involves controlling the value of the fan speed setting. In this embodiment, detection of a moving user input corresponds to a change in the fan speed setting (e.g. a swipe up for an increase).

In other embodiments, the cover layer is illuminated in dependence on the value of the fan speed setting and to denote one or more interaction regions for control of the fan speed setting. This involves illuminating the cover layer 12 adjacent to the vent which is more convenient and intuitive for the user. Of course, the illumination of the interaction regions themselves may depend on the value of the fan speed setting, for example like the annular pattern shown in Figure 2 or a different pattern such as a progressively increasing wedge shape.

At step S22, the method then involves waiting for either detection of a moving user input, detection of a reset user input, or else for the reset time to elapse.

If a moving user input is detected then the fan speed setting is updated according to the control associated with the respective interaction region and the method moves to step S20. In other embodiments, the method may comprise allowing repeated control of the relevant operational characteristic such as the fan speed setting before moving back to step S20.

At step S22, if a reset user input is detected or the reset time elapses without detection of a moving user input, the method moves to step S24.

At step S23, the temperature setting has been selected and consequently the method involves controlling the value of the temperature setting. In this embodiment, detection of a moving user input corresponds to a change in the temperature setting (e.g. a swipe up for an increase).

In other embodiments, the cover layer is illuminated in dependence on the value of the temperature setting and to denote one or more interaction regions for control of the temperature setting. Of course, the illumination of the interaction regions themselves may depend on the value of the temperature setting, for example like the illumination colours shown in Figure 2.

At step S23, the method then involves waiting for either detection of a moving user input, detection of a reset user input, or else for the reset time to elapse.

If a moving user input is detected then the temperature setting is updated and the method moves to step S20. If a reset user input is detected or the reset time elapses, the method moves to step S24.

At step S24, either the reset user input has been detected or the reset time has elapsed and as such, the vehicle trim switches back to the first control mode and step S10.

As described above, the appearance of the outer layer of the cover layer/vehicle trim is only modified by light projected therethrough. There is otherwise no changes in the appearance and the appearance is constant, for example it has constant shape, texture, and intrinsic colour etc. Thus, the appearance is constant while there is no visible indicia representative of the vehicle function present on the trim. Then the appearance is changed by illuminating the trim, for example in step S20. Of course, in some embodiments, the trim may not be illuminated at any time and therefore the trim will have a constant appearance throughout use and interaction with it by the user. In a third embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle function is a heating, ventilation and air conditioning function (HVAC). The operational characteristics of HVAC comprise: an area of the vehicle setting, a temperature setting, a fan speed setting, and/or a mode of operation setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the HVAC is a vent. The vehicle trim comprises a vent surround or a vent grill.

In this embodiment, the size of the illumination area depends on the fan speed setting, for example the illumination area increases in size with increasing fan speed. The position of the illumination area depends on the area of the vehicle setting, for example, it may move to denote which part of the vehicle is being controlled such as a driver area or a front passenger area. The illumination colour changes in dependence on the temperature setting.

In a fourth embodiment of the invention, the vehicle function is a seat temperature function. The operational characteristics of the seat temperature function comprise a seat selection setting, a seat heating or cooling setting, a seat temperature setting, an intensity setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the seat temperature function is a seat. The vehicle trim comprises seat upholstery.

In this embodiment, the illumination colour changes in dependence on the seat temperature setting and/or the seat heating or cooling setting.

In a fifth embodiment, the vehicle function is a media function. The operational characteristics of the media function comprise a media playback status setting (e.g. play, pause, stop), a volume setting, an audio balance setting, an audio equaliser setting, a display configuration setting and/or a media source setting. The display configuration setting may comprise a display brightness, contrast and/or sharpness. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the media function comprises a display screen and/or a loudspeaker. The vehicle trim comprises a display screen surround, a loudspeaker surround and/or a loudspeaker grill.

In a sixth embodiment, the media function is an audio function. The operational characteristics of the audio function comprise an audio playback status setting (e.g. play, pause, stop), a volume setting, an audio balance setting, an audio equaliser setting and/or an audio source setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the audio function comprises a loudspeaker.

In this embodiment, in the first control mode the vehicle trim may be configured to change an audio source setting in response to a moving user input. The moving user input is received on the loudspeaker grill. For example, a swipe up or down may increment the audio source setting. The audio source setting may define a currently playing track or radio station.

In this embodiment, a switching user input may comprise a user input received on the loudspeaker surround. In the second control mode, the light source may illuminate the cover layer to indicate more complex control options for the audio source setting/audio function, for example a genre selector.

In a seventh embodiment, the vehicle function is a communications function. The operational characteristics of the communications function comprise a volume setting, an audio balance setting, an audio equaliser setting, a microphone mute setting, a camera activation setting, a call status setting and/or a selected contact setting. The call status setting may facilitate the starting or ending of calls. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the communications function comprises a microphone, a display screen, a camera and/or a loudspeaker. The vehicle trim comprises a microphone surround, a microphone grill or a camera surround.

In this embodiment, the illumination colour changes in dependence on the microphone mute setting, the camera activation setting, and/or the call status setting.

In relation to the fifth to seventh embodiments above, the size of the illumination area depends on the volume setting. The position of the illumination area may depend on the audio balance setting.

In an eighth embodiment, the vehicle function is a vehicle furniture adjustment function. The vehicle furniture may comprise any fittings or articles of the vehicle that the vehicle occupants use. The operational characteristics of the vehicle furniture adjustment function comprise a position setting, an angle setting, and/or a state setting such as open/closed where applicable. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the vehicle furniture adjustment function may comprise: the seats, instrument cluster; vehicle control devices such as the steering wheel, pedals, gear stick, handbrake and the like; seat headrests; seat armrests; footrests; doors; windows; rear view mirrors; sunvisors; a retractable/removable roof; or the like. The vehicle furniture adjustment function may also adjust or control external features such as bonnets; boot lids; wing mirrors; or the like. The one or more sensing elements may be configured to control the vehicle furniture adjustment function via detection of forces applied to the vehicle furniture.

In a ninth embodiment, the vehicle furniture adjustment function is a window opening function. The operational characteristics of the window opening function comprise a window selection setting, a window position setting and/or a state of the window. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the window opening function is a window. A window may comprise any window within the vehicle, for example a door window or a sunroof. The vehicle trim comprises a windowsill. The windowsill is positioned directly beneath the window and is at least partly perpendicular to a pane of the window.

In this embodiment, in the first control mode, a moving user input received along the windowsill corresponds to changing the state of the window. Changing the state of the window corresponds to moving the window to a fully open or fully closed position. Additionally, if a moving user input is received that comprises a pause at the start (e.g. a the user input is stationary at the start), then the moving user input corresponds to control of the window position setting. This allows for finer adjustment of the window position, such as half open, a quarter open etc.

In this embodiment, in the second control mode, the light source is configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify two or more interaction regions each associated with a window selection setting. The user can thereby select which window they want to control. Once a user input is detected in an interaction region, the associated window can then be controlled in the same manner as the first control mode.

In a tenth embodiment, the vehicle furniture adjustment function is a seat position adjustment function. The operational characteristics of the seat position adjustment function comprise a seat selection setting, an adjustment direction setting, a seat position setting; a recline angle setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the seat position adjustment function is a seat. The vehicle trim comprises seat upholstery. In this embodiment, the position of the one or more sensing elements on the seat upholstery is defined by a sensing region denoted by a marker in the form of a specific stitching pattern on the seat upholstery. While the marker does not indicate the vehicle function itself, it can help ensure the user does not accidentally adjust the position of the seat while moving in the seat.

In this embodiment, in the first control mode the one or more sensing elements are configured to control the seat adjustment function via detection of forces applied to the seat upholstery. The one or more sensing elements only control the seat position adjustment function if the force magnitude associated with the user input is greater than a force threshold and if the force threshold is exceeded for at least a duration threshold. In this embodiment, the duration threshold is 1 second. The force threshold is set to ensure the vehicle function is only controlled when the user deliberately pulls or pushes the seat upholstery. Thus, the user can simply push or pull on the seat upholstery to change the values of the seat position setting and/or recline angle setting. This makes it very convenient to quickly make adjustment to the seat.

In this embodiment, the switching user input may be a user input that has a force magnitude lower than the threshold value.

In this embodiment, in the second control mode, the light source is configured to illuminate the cover layer to indicate two or more interaction regions each corresponding to a direction of the adjustment direction setting, for example a relating to each different direction in which the seat position setting and/or recline angle setting can be changed. Thus, the user can select which direction to adjust the seat position/angle by application of a user input in the corresponding interaction region.

In the fourth and tenth embodiments, the position of the illumination area may depend on the seat selection setting.

In an eleventh embodiment, the vehicle function is a lighting function. The operational characteristics of the lighting function comprise a light selection setting, an area of the vehicle setting, a brightness setting, a colour setting and/or a lighting theme setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the lighting function is a vehicle light source. The vehicle trim comprises a light cover or a light surround.

In this embodiment, in the first control mode, in response to a user input the vehicle trim is configured to illuminate the vehicle trim to indicate an interaction region. When a further user input is detected in the interaction region, the light source illuminates the vehicle trim to indicate two or more interaction regions associated with the lighting theme setting. A further user input in one of the two or more interaction regions then changes the lighting theme setting.

In this embodiment, a switching user input comprises a moving user input. The switching user input is received on the vehicle waist rail.

In this embodiment, in the second control mode, the light source is configured to illuminate the cover layer to define two or more interaction regions corresponding to the colour setting. Each interaction region has an illumination colour corresponding to a possible value (or colour) of the colour setting. In this embodiment, the interaction regions are arranged adjacently to give the effect of a rainbow. A user input may then be made to select a certain colour.

In a twelfth embodiment, the lighting function is an ambient lighting function. The operational characteristics of the ambient lighting function comprise a light selection setting, an area of the vehicle setting, a brightness setting, a colour setting and/or a lighting theme setting. A feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle associated with the ambient lighting function is an ambient light source.

In the eleventh and twelfth embodiments the position of the illumination area may depend on the area of the vehicle setting. The size of the illumination area may depend on the brightness setting. The illumination colour may change in dependence on the colour setting.

The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle trim, comprising: a cover layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, the cover layer allowing transmission of light therethrough; and a light source configured to direct light onto the inner surface of the cover layer to illuminate the cover layer; and wherein the outer surface of the cover layer forms a visible surface of the vehicle trim and appears opaque, to a user, when not illuminated by the light source, the vehicle trim comprising one or more sensing elements operable to detect a user input at the outer surface of the cover layer for controlling a vehicle function; wherein in a first control mode the one or more sensing elements are configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a first control scheme and in a second control mode the one or more sensing elements are configured to receive a user input and control the vehicle function according to a second control scheme, wherein the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a switching user input and switch from the first control mode to the second control mode in response to detection of the switching user input, wherein the light source is operable to illuminate the cover layer to indicate the one or more sensing elements are in the second control mode, and in the first control mode the visible surface of the vehicle trim comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements.

2. A vehicle trim according to claim 1 wherein the first control mode and the second control mode only allow control of the same vehicle function.

3. A vehicle trim according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the second control mode is configured to provide finer control of the vehicle function as compared to the first control mode.

4. A vehicle trim according to any preceding claim wherein in the second control mode, the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a selection user input to select an operational characteristic of the vehicle function to be controlled in the second control mode.

5. A vehicle trim according to claim 4 wherein the operational characteristic of the vehicle function controlled in the first control mode remains the same irrespective of the detection of a selection user input.

6. A vehicle trim according to claim 5 wherein the light source is configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify where the one or more sensing elements are configured to detect a selection user input.

7. A vehicle trim according to any preceding claim wherein the first control mode allows control of only one operational characteristic of the vehicle function at one time.

8. A vehicle trim according to any preceding claim wherein the second control mode allows control of two or more operational characteristics of the vehicle function.

9. A vehicle trim according to claim 8 wherein the light source is configured to illuminate the cover layer to identify a location on the cover layer corresponding to control of one, or each, of the two or more operational characteristics controllable in the second control mode.

10. A vehicle trim according to any preceding claim wherein the vehicle trim is provided in the first control mode.

11. A vehicle trim according to any preceding claim wherein the vehicle trim is operable to automatically switch from the second control mode to the first control mode.

12. A vehicle trim according to claim 11 wherein the vehicle trim automatically switches from the second control mode to the first control mode in the absence of the detection of a user input by the one or more sensing elements for a switching time of at least 1 second.

13. A vehicle trim according to any preceding claim wherein in the first control mode the visible surface of the vehicle trim comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements during control of the vehicle function via the one or more sensing elements.

14. A vehicle trim according to claim 13 wherein at all times when in the first control mode, the visible surface of the vehicle trim comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements.

15. A vehicle trim according to any preceding claim wherein the light source is operable to illuminate the cover layer on or adjacent to a feature which modifies the internal environment of a vehicle; the feature being controlled by a vehicle function.

16. A control system for illuminating a vehicle trim and controlling the operation of a vehicle function via the vehicle trim, wherein the vehicle trim is the vehicle trim of any preceding claim, the control system comprising one or more controllers and being configured to: receive an input signal from one or more sensing elements indicative of a user request to control the vehicle function; generate a control signal comprising one or more instructions for controlling the vehicle function; output the control signal to the vehicle function for controlling the vehicle function in accordance with the user request; receive an input signal indicative of the vehicle trim being in the second control mode; generate a control signal comprising one or more instructions for illuminating the vehicle trim; and output the control signal to the light source.

17. A vehicle comprising the vehicle trim of any of claims 1 to 15; or the control system of claim 16.

18. A method for controlling operation of a vehicle function via a vehicle trim and illuminating a vehicle trim, the method comprising: determining if the vehicle trim is in a first control mode or a second control mode; receiving a user input at one or more sensing elements of the vehicle trim indicative of a user request to control operation of the vehicle function; controlling the vehicle function in accordance with the user request and either a first control scheme if the vehicle trim is in the first control mode or a second control scheme if the vehicle trim is in the second control mode; and instructing a light source to illuminate a cover layer of the vehicle trim to indicate when the vehicle trim is in the second control mode, and in the first control mode the visible surface of the vehicle trim comprises no visible indicia thereon representative of the vehicle function controllable via the one or more sensing elements prior to detection of a user input via the one or more sensing elements.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein the vehicle trim is the vehicle trim of any of claims 1 to 15.