FR3111857A1 - Interior structure and vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

Interior structure and vehicle The interior structure (1) includes: - a control (15) capable of adopting at least a first state and a second state, the control (15) presenting a pattern (17) and comprising a state sensor (19); - a light source (21); - at least one first optical shutter (25) placed opposite a first part (27) of the pattern (17); - a computer (29) programmed to command the first shutter (25) to adopt an opaque state in the first state of the control (15), and a translucent state transiently or permanently in the second state of the control (15 ). Figure for abstract: 1

Description

Interior structure and vehicle

The present invention generally relates to the interior structures of vehicles equipped with controls.

It is common for a vehicle interior structure to carry controls controlling vehicle components such as the locking of the openings, the interior lighting of the passenger compartment, etc.

The command is for example in the form of a touch zone bearing a symbol allowing the user to understand which component is being controlled.

Such a command has the defect that the user does not see if the function has been activated as long as he has his finger on the touch zone. Furthermore, a user placed far from the control cannot discern whether the function is activated.

The symbol can be illuminated by a single light source or several light sources, in particular when it is desired to give the user light returns of different colors depending on the circumstances.

In this context, the invention aims to provide an interior structure equipped with a control whose state can be signaled more easily to the user.

To this end, the invention relates to an interior structure of a motor vehicle, the structure comprising:

- a substrate layer having a translucent zone;
- a command capable of being actuated by a user and of adopting under the action of the user selectively several states chosen from a list comprising at least a first state and a second state, the command comprising a pattern arranged opposite the translucent area and a sensor configured to detect the state in which the control is;
- a light source generating a light beam through the translucent area;
- at least one first optical shutter interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source and the translucent zone, the first shutter being placed facing a first part of the pattern, the first optical shutter selectively adopting a translucent state or a state cloudy;
- a computer programmed to control the first shutter as a function of the state of the order, the computer being programmed to order the first shutter to adopt the opaque state in the first state of the order, the computer being programmed to order the first shutter to adopt the translucent state temporarily or permanently in the second state of the command.

The first optical shutter, interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source and the translucent zone, makes it possible to mask or illuminate the first part of the pattern depending on the state of the command. It thus makes it possible to modify the appearance of the translucent zone according to the status of the order and to inform the user in a convenient way.

The interior structure may also have one or more of the characteristics below, considered individually or in all technically possible combinations:

- Controlling a component of the vehicle, said component being inactive in the first state and active in the second state ;

- at least one second optical shutter is interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source and the translucent zone, the second shutter being placed facing a second part of the pattern distinct from the first part, the second optical shutter selectively adopting a translucent state or an opaque state;
- the computer is programmed to control the second shutter as a function of the state of the command, the computer being programmed to command the second shutter to adopt the translucent state in the first state of the command, the computer being programmed to command the second shutter to adopt the opaque state temporarily or permanently in the second state of the command;

- at least one third optical shutter is interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source and the translucent zone, the third shutter being placed opposite a third part of the pattern distinct from the first part, the third optical shutter selectively adopting a translucent state or an opaque state;
- the computer is programmed to control the third shutter as a function of the state of the order, the computer being programmed to order the third shutter to adopt the translucent state in the first state of the order, the computer being programmed to order the third shutter to adopt the translucent state temporarily or permanently in the second state of the command;

- the computer is programmed to command the first, second and third shutters to each adopt the opaque state when the light source is inactive;

- the pattern and the first, second and third shutters are configured to display in the translucent zone a first pattern in the first state of the command and a second pattern in the second state of the command,
the first pattern and the second pattern overlapping at the third part;
the first part is part of the second pattern;
the second part is part of the first pattern;

- the computer is programmed to command the third shutter to adopt the translucent state transiently in the second state of the command, the third shutter adopting the translucent state in a plurality of first predetermined time slots and adopting the state opaque in a plurality of second predetermined time slots interspersed between the first time slots;
the computer is programmed to command the first shutter to adopt the translucent state transiently in the second state of the command, the first shutter adopting the translucent state in a plurality of third predetermined time slots superimposed on the second time slots and adopting the opaque state between said third predetermined time slots;

- the light source is configured to give the light beam selectively at least a first color or a second color, the computer being programmed to command the light source to give the light beam the first color during the first time slots and to give the light beam the second color during the third time slots;

- at least a fourth optical shutter is interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source and the translucent zone, the fourth shutter being placed opposite a fourth part of the pattern distinct from the first and third parts, the fourth optical shutter adopting selectively a translucent state or an opaque state;
- the computer is programmed to command the fourth shutter as a function of the state of the command, the computer being programmed to command the fourth shutter to adopt the opaque state in the first state of the command, the computer being programmed to command the fourth shutter to adopt the translucent state transiently in the second state of the control, the fourth shutter adopting the translucent state in a plurality of fourth predetermined time slots superimposed on the second time slots and interposed between the third slots time, and adopting the opaque state between said fourth predetermined time slots;
- the computer (29) being programmed to command the light source to give the light beam a third color during the fourth time slots.

According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle comprising an interior structure having the characteristics below.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description which will be given below, by way of indication and in no way limiting, with reference to the appended figures, among which:

- Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an interior structure according to a first embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 2 is a representation of the pattern of the control of Figure 1;

- [Fig 4] Figures 3 and 4 are views similar to those of Figures 1 and 2, illustrating the interior structure in the first state of the command;

- [Fig 6] Figures 5 and 6 are views similar to those of Figures 1 and 2, illustrating the interior structure in the second state of the command;

- FIG. 7 is a representation of the pattern of an interior structure according to a second embodiment of the invention;

- [Fig 9] Figures 8 and 9 are views similar to those of Figures 3 and 5, illustrating an interior structure according to a third embodiment of the invention, respectively in the first state of the command and in the second state of the command;

- Figure 10 is a representation of the control pattern of Figures 8 and 9;

- FIG. 11 is a view similar to that of FIG. 1, for an interior structure according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

- FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the state of the light source and the state of the various optical shutters as a function of time, for the second state of the command of FIG. 11; And

- Figure 13 is a representation of the pattern of the command of Figure 11, in the second state of this command.

The interior structure 1 represented in FIG. 1 is intended to be installed in a vehicle, typically a motor vehicle such as a car, a bus or a truck.

The interior structure 1 is intended to be arranged in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The interior structure 1 is for example a dashboard, a trim of an opening, a central console, or any other interior structure.

The interior structure 1 comprises a layer of substrate 3 having a translucent zone 5.

It also comprises a body 7, having a surface 9 covered by the substrate layer 3.

The body 7 is made of a rigid material.

The substrate layer 3 has an outer face facing the passenger compartment of the vehicle and intended to be visible to the passengers. It also has an internal face pressed against the surface 9 of the body.

A housing 11 filled with a translucent material 13 is dug into the surface 9 of the body 7.

Alternatively, the translucent material 13 is injection molded on the substrate 3, then the body 7 is injection molded on the subassembly formed of the translucent material 13 and the substrate 3.

According to another variant, the translucent material 13 is formed by depositing resin on the substrate 3.

The substrate 3 is for example made of a plastic material such as polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate/polymethylmethacrylate (PC/PMMA), or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). It has a thickness between 175µm and 2mm.

The translucent material is typically polycarbonate (PC) or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

The interior structure also comprises a command 15 capable of being actuated by a user and of adopting under the action of the user selectively several states chosen from a list comprising at least a first state and a second state.

Control 15 controls a component of the vehicle, for example the locking of the doors, the passenger compartment lighting, the passenger compartment ventilation circuit, etc.

Said member is typically inactive in the first state and active in the second state.

The command, for example, has only two possible states. As a variant, it is capable of adopting more than two states, for example three states or four states. In the case of the passenger compartment ventilation circuit, the first state corresponds for example to zero ventilation flow, and the other states to increasing flow rates.

Control 15 includes a pattern 17 arranged opposite translucent area 5 and a sensor 19 configured to record the state in which control 15 is located.

The pattern 17 is typically printed on the internal face (figures 1, 3 and 5) or on the external face (figures 8,9,11) of the substrate layer 3.

Pattern 17 is typically printed on translucent area 5.

Pattern 17 covers the entire translucent area 5.

Pattern 17 is typically made of a translucent material. It is of a single color or on the contrary has areas of different colors from each other. Alternatively, it is in a transparent material, invisible in the absence of backlighting.

The sensor 19 comprises for example a capacitive member and a calculating member. This capacitive member is typically printed on the pattern 17, or around the pattern 17. The capacitive member detects when a user touches the translucent zone 5 and informs the calculation member thereof.

The calculation unit is for example a microprocessor. The calculation unit periodically or continuously scans the state of the command 15. The calculation unit stores the current state of the command 15, and updates this state each time the capacitive member detects an action of the user on the order.

As a variant, the sensor 19 comprises a tactile film instead of the capacitive member or even any type of pressure sensor making it possible to detect a pressure of zero or positive force. The tactile film can be piezoelectric, resistive, etc.

Control 15 also includes a light source 21 generating a light beam through translucent zone 5.

The light source 21 is placed in the housing 11.

The light source 21 is for example of the LED type.

The light source 21 is preferably fixed at the level of the surface 9 but can also be fixed elsewhere.

For example, electronic tracks are printed on the surface of the substrate layer 3 and are connected to the light source 21 in particular in order to power it.

For example, the housing 11 is covered by a part 23 of the substrate layer 3 integrating the translucent zone 5. This part 23 is entirely opaque, except at the level of the translucent zone 5.

The body 7 is made of an opaque material, for example reflecting the light emitted by the source 21. Alternatively, the surface of the housing 11 is covered with a film of reflective material, interposed between the body 7 and the translucent material 13.

The interior structure 1 comprises at least a first optical shutter 25 interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source 21 and the translucent zone 5.

The first shutter 25 is placed opposite a first part 27 of the pattern 17.

The first optical shutter 25 selectively adopts a translucent state or an opaque state.

In the translucent state, the first optical shutter 25 lets through at least 50% of the light received, preferably at least 75%, more preferably at least 90%. In its translucent state, the first optical shutter 25 allows all the wavelengths emitted by the light source 21 to pass. Alternatively, it only allows a portion of the wavelengths emitted by the light source to pass.

In the opaque state, the first optical shutter 25 blocks at least 80% of the received light, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 99%.

The first shutter 25 is for example made of an electrochromic material. As a variant, it is of the PDLC type (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal or Liquid Crystal Dispersed in a Polymer), or even of the SPD type (Suspended Particle Dispersion or Dispersion of Particles in Suspension), VTEF (Variable Transmission Electrophoretic Film or Film Electrophoretique à Transmission Variable) or micro-blinds type. These materials are known and will not be described here in detail.

The first shutter 25 is printed or laminated on the first part 27 of the pattern 17. It is typically printed or laminated on the side of the pattern 17 opposite to the substrate layer 3.

In the translucent state of the first shutter 25, the light coming from the source 21 can pass through the first part 27 of the pattern 17. In the opaque state of the first shutter 25, the light coming from the source 21 cannot pass through the first part 27 of pattern 17.

The interior structure 1 also includes a computer 29 programmed to control the first shutter 25 according to the state of the control 15.

The computer 29 is of any suitable type. For example, the computer is an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit).

The computer 29 is programmed to command the first shutter 25 to adopt the opaque state in the first state of the command 15. The computer 29 is programmed to command the first shutter 25 to adopt the translucent state temporarily or permanently in the second state of command 15.

Several embodiments will now be described, illustrating how this principle is applied in the invention.

A first embodiment will first be described, with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

The interior structure 1 comprises a second optical shutter 31, interposed on the path of the light beam between the light source 21 and the translucent zone 5.

The second shutter 31 is placed opposite a second part 33 of the pattern 17, distinct from the first part 27.

The second optical shutter 31 selectively adopts a translucent state or an opaque state.

The computer 29 is programmed to control the second shutter 31 according to the state of the control 15.

The second shutter 31 is for example made of an electrochromic material. As a variant, it is of the PDLC type (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal or Liquid Crystal Dispersed in a Polymer), or even of the SPD type (Suspended Particle Dispersion or Dispersion of Particles in Suspension), VTEF (Variable Transmission Electrophoretic Film or Film Electrophoretique à Transmission Variable) or micro-blinds type. Typically, it is of the same type as the first shutter 25.

In the translucent state of the second shutter 31, the light coming from the source 21 can pass through the second part 33 of the pattern 17. In the opaque state of the second shutter 31, the light coming from the source 21 cannot pass through the second part 33 of pattern 17.

The interior structure 1 further comprises at least a third optical shutter 35, interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source 21 and the translucent zone 5. The third shutter 35 is placed facing a third part 37 of the pattern 17, distinct from the first part 27.

The third part 37 of the pattern 17 is distinct from the second part 33.

Together, the first, second and third parts 27, 33 and 37 typically cover the whole of the pattern 17.

The third optical shutter 35 selectively adopts a translucent state or an opaque state.

The computer 29 is programmed to control the third shutter 35 according to the state of the control 15.

The third shutter 35 is for example made of an electrochromic material. As a variant, it is of the PDLC type (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal or Liquid Crystal Dispersed in a Polymer), or even of the SPD type (Suspended Particle Dispersion or Dispersion of Particles in Suspension), VTEF (Variable Transmission Electrophoretic Film or Film Electrophoretique à Transmission Variable) or micro-blinds type. Typically, it is of the same type as the first shutter 25.

In the translucent state of the third shutter 35, the light coming from the source 21 can pass through the third part 37 of the pattern 17. In the opaque state of the third shutter 35, the light coming from the source 21 cannot pass through the third part 37 of pattern 17.

In the first embodiment, the computer 29 is programmed to command the first shutter 25 to adopt:

- the opaque state in the first state of command 15;

- the translucent state, permanently, in the second state of command 15.

In the first embodiment, the computer 29 is programmed to command the second shutter 31 to adopt:

- the translucent state in the first state of command 15,

- the opaque state, permanently, in the second state of command 15.

In the first embodiment, the computer 29 is programmed to command the third shutter 35 to adopt:

- the translucent state in the first state of command 15,

- the translucent state, permanently, in the second state of command 15.

Furthermore, the pattern 17 and the first, second and third shutters 25, 31, 35 are configured to make appear in the translucent zone 5 a first pattern 39 in the first state of the control 15 and a second pattern 41 in the second state. of command 15.

The first pattern 39 is a zone of the pattern 17. It is typically intended to visually indicate to the passengers that the control 15 is in the first state.

In the example shown, command 15 is inactive in the first state, and first pattern 39 is the “OFF” symbol (FIG. 4).

The second pattern 41 is another zone of the pattern 17. It is typically provided to visually indicate to the passengers that the control 15 is in the second state.

In the example shown, command 15 is active in the second state, and second pattern 41 is the “ON” symbol (FIG. 6).

The first pattern and the second pattern 39, 41 overlap at the level of the third part 37. In other words, the third part 37 constitutes the intersection of the first pattern 39 and the second pattern 41, as shown in FIG. .

The first part 27 is part of the second pattern 41. It is fully integrated into the second pattern 41.

The second part 33 is part of the first pattern 39. It is fully integrated into the first pattern 39.

Thus, the first pattern 39 is defined by the second part 33 and by the third part 37.

The second pattern 41 is defined by the first part 27 and by the third part 37.

The computer 29 is programmed to command the first, second and third shutters 25, 31, 35 to each adopt the opaque state when the light source 21 is inactive.

The operation of the interior structure 1 will now be described.

In the initial situation considered here, control 15 is in its first state.

Typically, the vehicle component controlled by control 15 is inactive.

The computer 29 therefore commands the first shutter 25 to adopt its opaque state, and the second and third shutters 31, 35 to adopt their respective translucent states.

The light source 21 emits light radiation.

This diffuses through the translucent material 13, passes through the second and third shutters 31, 35 and passes through the second and third parts 33, 37 of the pattern 17.

On the other hand, the first shutter 25 prevents the light radiation from passing through the first part 27 of the pattern 17.

This situation is depicted in Figure 3.

The first pattern 39 appears on the translucent zone 5 and informs passengers of the status of control 15.

When a passenger wants to switch the control to its second state, he activates this control 15.

Typically, it touches the translucent zone 15.

Sensor 19 detects the touch and causes control 15 to switch to the second state. It updates the status of the order in the calculation unit.

Command 15, for example, activates the controlled device.

Computer 29 scans the state of command 15 recorded in the calculation unit. The computer 29 commands the first shutter 25 to adopt its translucent state, and the second shutter 31 to adopt its opaque state, the third shutter 35 remaining in its translucent state.

The light source 21 continues to emit light radiation.

This diffuses through the translucent material 13, passes through the first and third shutters 25, 35 and passes through the first and third parts 27, 37 of the pattern 17.

On the other hand, the second shutter 31 prevents the light radiation from passing through the second part 33 of the pattern 17.

This situation is depicted in Figure 5.

The second pattern 41 appears on the translucent zone 5 and informs passengers of the status of control 15.

When a passenger wants to bring the control back to its first state, he activates this control 15 again.

Typically, it again touches the translucent zone 15.

Sensor 19 detects the touch and causes control 15 to switch to the first state. It updates the status of the order in the calculation unit.

The computer 29 then commands the first shutter 25 to adopt its opaque state, and the second and third shutters 31, 35 to adopt their respective translucent states. This is again the first pattern that appears on translucent area 5.

When the light source is inactive, the computer 29 commands the first, second and third shutters 25, 31, 35 to adopt their respective opaque states. No pattern appears in the translucent zone 5. The presence of the shutters means that the passengers cannot distinguish the pattern 17, even in grazing exterior light.

In the example shown, the first, second and third parts of the pattern are of different colors from each other. The first and second patterns 39, 41 appear in different colors to the passengers.

As a variant, the first and/or second and/and third parts of the pattern are of identical colors to one another.

In the first embodiment, the first pattern 39 and the second pattern 41 are different symbols from each other. These symbols are for example alphanumeric character strings, pictograms, or are of any other type.

According to a variant embodiment, the interior structure does not include the third shutter 35. The pattern 17 is then less well concealed when the light source is inactive.

According to a variant embodiment, the interior structure does not include the second shutter 31 and does not include the third shutter 35. In this case, the passage of the control 15 to its second state results in the appearance of a luminous part addition of pattern 17.

Each of the first, second and third shutters 25, 31, 35 comprises for example several zones separate from each other, as represented in FIGS. 2, 4 and 6. As a variant, the first and/or second and/or third shutter comprises a single continuous area.

According to a variant embodiment, in the second state of command 15, computer 29 is programmed to command first shutter 25 to adopt the translucent state temporarily.

For example, the computer 29 is programmed to command the first shutter 25 to alternately adopt the translucent state and the opaque state, according to a predetermined time diagram.

Preferably, the computer 29 is programmed to command the third shutter 35 to also alternately adopt the translucent state and the opaque state, according to the same predetermined time diagram.

The second pattern thus appears in a flashing manner on the translucent zone.

A second embodiment of the invention will now be detailed, with reference to Figure 7.

Only the points by which the second embodiment differs from the first will be detailed below. Elements which are identical or perform the same functions will be designated by the same reference numerals in the two embodiments.

The second embodiment differs from the first by the nature of the first and second patterns 39, 41.

In the first embodiment, the first pattern 39 and the second pattern 41 are different symbols from each other. In the second embodiment, the first pattern 39 and the second pattern 41 are identical symbols, but of different sizes.

In the example represented, the first pattern 39 is the word “ON”, of relatively smaller size. The second pattern 41 is the same word “ON”, of relatively larger size.

A third embodiment of the invention will now be detailed, with reference to Figures 8 to 10.

Only the points by which the third embodiment differs from the first will be detailed below. The identical elements or providing the same functions will be designated by the same reference numerals in the two embodiments.

In FIGS. 8 and 9, only the translucent material 13 is represented, the body 7 not being represented.

In the third embodiment, the interior structure 1 does not include the second shutter 31.

In the third embodiment, the computer 29 is programmed to command the third shutter 35 to adopt:

- the translucent state in the first state of command 15,

- the translucent state, permanently, in the second state of command 15.

Furthermore, the pattern 17 and the first and third shutters 25, 35 are configured to show in the translucent zone 5:

- A first pattern 39 visible both in the first state of control 15 and in the second state of control 15; And

- a second pattern 41 visible only in the second state of the command 15.

The first pattern 39 is a zone of the pattern 17. It typically indicates to the passenger the zone to be actuated to activate the control 15. This zone bears, for example, an acronym illustrating the device controlled by the control 15. The sensor 19 is placed at the level of the first pattern 39.

In the example shown in Figure 10, the first pattern is a disc bearing an acronym masked by the user's finger.

The second pattern 41 is another zone of the pattern 17. It is typically provided to visually indicate to the passengers that the control 15 is in the second state.

In the example shown, the second pattern 41 comprises two concentric circles 43, 45, arranged around the first pattern (Figure 10).

For example, the second pattern 41 is completely disjoint from the first pattern 39, without intersection therewith.

The third part 37 of the pattern 17 defines the first pattern 39. The first pattern 39 is entirely defined by the third part 37.

The first part 27 defines the second pattern 41. The second pattern 41 is entirely defined by the first part 27.

The operation of the interior structure 1 according to the third embodiment will now be described.

In the initial situation considered here, control 15 is in its first state.

Typically, the vehicle component controlled by control 15 is inactive.

The computer 29 therefore commands the first shutter 25 to adopt its opaque state, and the third shutter 35 to adopt its translucent state.

The light source 21 emits light radiation.

This diffuses through the translucent material, crosses the third shutter 35 and crosses the third part 37 of the pattern 17.

On the other hand, the first shutter 25 prevents the light radiation from passing through the first part 27 of the pattern 17.

This situation is depicted in Figure 8.

The first pattern 39 appears on the translucent zone 5 and informs passengers of the status of control 15.

When a passenger wants to switch the control to its second state, he activates this control 15.

Typically, it touches the first pattern 39, appearing on the translucent zone 15.

Sensor 19 detects the touch and causes control 15 to switch to the second state. It updates the status of command 15 in the calculation unit.

Command 15, for example, activates the controlled device.

The computer 29 then commands the first shutter 25 to adopt its translucent state, the third shutter 35 remaining in its translucent state.

The light source 21 continues to emit light radiation.

This diffuses through the translucent material, passes through the first and third shutter 25, 35 and passes through the first and third parts 27, 37 of the pattern 17.

This situation is shown in Figure 9.

The first pattern 39 and the second pattern 41 appear simultaneously on the translucent zone 5 and inform passengers of the status of the control 15.

When a passenger wants to bring the control back to its first state, he activates this control 15 again.

Typically, it skims over the first pattern 39 again.

Sensor 19 detects the touch and causes control 15 to switch to the first state. It updates the status of the order in the calculation unit.

The computer 29 then commands the first shutter 25 to adopt its opaque state, the third shutter 35 retaining its translucent state. Again, the first pattern 39 appears alone on the translucent area 5.

The variants set out in relation to the first embodiment also apply to the third embodiment.

In particular, according to a variant, the interior structure does not include the third shutter 35.

According to a variant embodiment, in the second state of command 15, computer 29 is programmed to command first shutter 25 to adopt the translucent state temporarily.

For example, the computer 29 is programmed to command the first shutter 25 to alternately adopt the translucent state and the opaque state, according to a predetermined time diagram.

The second pattern thus appears in a flashing manner on the translucent zone.

The invention has been described with a first part 27 of the pattern 17 in the form of circles. This part can have any other suitable shape.

A fourth embodiment of the invention will now be detailed, with reference to Figures 11 to 13.

Only the points by which the fourth embodiment differs from the third will be detailed below. The identical elements or providing the same functions will be designated by the same reference numerals in the two embodiments.

In FIG. 11, only the translucent material 13 is represented, the body 7 not being represented.

The interior structure 1 does not include the second shutter 31.

On the other hand, it comprises a fourth optical shutter 47 interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source 21 and the translucent zone 5.

The fourth shutter 47 is placed opposite a fourth part 49 of the pattern 17, distinct from the first and third parts 27 and 37.

The fourth optical shutter 47 selectively adopts a translucent state or an opaque state. It is typically of the same type as other optical shutters.

Advantageously, the interior structure 1 also comprises a fifth optical shutter 51 interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source 21 and the translucent zone 5.

The fifth shutter 51 is placed opposite a fifth part 53 of the pattern 17, distinct from the first, third and fourth parts 27, 37 and 49.

The fifth optical shutter 51 selectively adopts a translucent state or an opaque state. It is typically of the same type as other optical shutters.

Together, the first, third, fourth and fifth parts 27, 37, 49 and 53 form the whole of pattern 17.

As in the third embodiment, the first pattern 39 typically indicates to the passenger the zone to be actuated to activate the control 15. This zone bears, for example, an acronym illustrating the device controlled by the control 15. The sensor 19 is placed at the level of the first pattern 39.

The first pattern 39 is for example a disk bearing an acronym, hidden by the user's finger in the representation of FIG. 13.

The second pattern 41 is another zone of the pattern 17. It is typically provided to visually indicate to the passengers that the control 15 is in the second state.

In the example shown, the second pattern 41 comprises three concentric circles 55, 57, 59 arranged around the first pattern (Figure 13).

For example, the second pattern 41 is completely disjoint from the first pattern 39, without intersection therewith.

The third part 37 of the pattern 17 defines the first pattern 39. The first pattern 39 is entirely defined by the third part 37.

The first, fourth and fifth parts 27, 49, 53 define the second pattern 41. The second pattern 41 is entirely defined by these three parts. More precisely, the first, fourth and fifth parts 27, 49, 53 respectively define the concentric circles 55, 57, 59.

The computer 29 is programmed to command the third shutter 35 to adopt the translucent state in a transient manner in the second state of the control 15, the third shutter adopting the translucent state in a plurality of first predetermined time slots T1, and adopting the opaque state in a plurality of second predetermined time slots T2 intercalated between the first time slots T1 (FIG. 12, ^4th line from the bottom). In FIG. 12, O corresponds to the opaque state and T to the translucent state.

The first and second slots T1, T2 alternate continuously, a first slot T1 being flanked by two second slots T2 and vice versa.

The computer 29 is programmed to command the first shutter 25 to adopt the translucent state transiently in the second state of the command 15, the first shutter 25 adopting the translucent state in a plurality of third predetermined time slots T3 superimposed to the second slots T2, and adopting the opaque state between said first slots T3 of predetermined times (FIG. 12, 3 ^rd line from the bottom). Only two slots T3 are shown in Figure 12.

The computer 29 is programmed to control the fourth shutter 47 according to the state of the control 15. The computer 29 is programmed to control the fourth shutter 47 to adopt the opaque state in the first state of the control 15, the computer 29 being programmed to command the fourth shutter 47 to adopt the translucent state transiently in the second state of the command 15.

The fourth shutter 47 adopts the translucent state in a plurality of fourth predetermined time slots T4 superimposed on the second slots T2 and intercalated between the third time slots T3, and adopting the opaque state between said fourth predetermined time slots T4 (figure 12, ^2nd line from the bottom). Only a slot T4 is shown in Figure 12.

The computer 29 is programmed to control the fifth shutter 51 according to the state of the control 15. The computer 29 is programmed to control the fifth shutter 51 to adopt the opaque state in the first state of the control 15, the computer 29 being programmed to command the fifth shutter 51 to adopt the translucent state transiently in the second state of the command 15.

The fifth shutter 51 adopts the translucent state in a plurality of fifth predetermined time slots T5 superimposed on the second slots T2 and intercalated between the third and fourth time slots T3 and T4, and adopting the opaque state between said fifth time slots T5 predetermined (Figure 12, ^1st line from the bottom). Only a slot T5 is shown in Figure 12.

More precisely, the slots T3, T4 and T5 are each superimposed on a slot T2. Slots T3, T4 and T5 follow one another in this order. They are separated from each other by T1 slots.

Light source 21 is configured to selectively impart to the light beam at least a first color C1 or a second color C2.

Preferably, it is configured to impart to the light beam also selectively at least a third and a fourth color C3, C4.

The first, second, third and fourth colors are different from each other.

The computer 29 is programmed to command the light source 21 to give the light beam the first color C1 during the first time slots T1 and to give the light beam the second color C2 during the third time slots T3, as illustrated in the two upper lines of Figure 12.

Advantageously, the computer 29 is programmed to command the light source to give the light beam the third color C3 during the fourth time slots T4, and the fourth color C4 during the fifth time slots T5, as illustrated on the third and fourth lines starting from the top of figure 12.

Thus, in the second state of command 15, translucent zone 5 will successively display, as illustrated on the line located at the bottom of figure 12:

- the third part 37, that is to say the first pattern 39, in the second color;

- the first part 27 of pattern 17, i.e. circle 55, in the first color;

- the third part 37, that is to say the first pattern 39, in the second color;

- the fourth part 49 of pattern 17, i.e. circle 57, in the third color;

- the third part 37, that is to say the first pattern 39, in the second color;

- the fifth part 53 of pattern 17, i.e. circle 59, in the fourth color;

then the cycle will start again.

Preferably, the slots are of short duration, so that the passengers will see the first pattern 39 permanently, and will see the three circles 55, 57 and 59, successively around the first pattern 39. This makes it possible not to see the first pattern 39 flash while maintaining a dynamic effect thanks to the different circles which are seen in succession.

This also makes it possible to create a multicolored decor with a single light source and a monocolor 17 pattern.

As a variant, the interior structure does not include the fifth shutter. According to another variant, the internal structure comprises neither the fourth shutter nor the fifth shutter.

The invention has been described with first, fourth and fifth parts 27, 49, 53 of pattern 17 in the form of circles. These parts can have any other suitable shape.

Claims (10)

Motor vehicle interior structure, the structure (1) comprising:
- a substrate layer (3) having a translucent zone (5);
- a command (15) capable of being actuated by a user and of adopting under the action of the user selectively several states chosen from a list comprising at least a first state and a second state, the command (15) comprising a pattern (17) arranged opposite the translucent zone (5) and a sensor (19) configured to detect the state in which the control (15) is located;
- a light source (21) generating a light beam through the translucent area (5);
- at least one first optical shutter (25) interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source (21) and the translucent zone (5), the first shutter (25) being placed facing a first part (27) of the pattern (17), the first optical shutter (25) selectively adopting a translucent state or an opaque state;
- a computer (29) programmed to control the first shutter (25) according to the state of the control (15), the computer (29) being programmed to control the first shutter (25) to adopt the opaque state in the first state of the command (15), the computer (29) being programmed to command the first shutter (25) to adopt the translucent state temporarily or permanently in the second state of the command (15). Interior structure according to claim 1, in which the control (15) controls a member of the vehicle, said member being inactive in the first state and active in the second state. Interior structure according to claim 1 or 2, in which
- at least one second optical shutter (31) is interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source (21) and the translucent zone (5), the second shutter (31) being placed facing a second part (33 ) of the pattern (17) distinct from the first part (27), the second optical shutter (31) selectively adopting a translucent state or an opaque state;
- the computer (29) is programmed to command the second shutter (31) as a function of the state of the command (15), the computer (29) being programmed to command the second shutter (31) to adopt the state translucent in the first state of the command (15), the computer (29) being programmed to command the second shutter (31) to adopt the opaque state temporarily or permanently in the second state of the command (15). Interior structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which
- at least one third optical shutter (35) is interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source (21) and the translucent zone (5), the third shutter (35) being placed facing a third part (37 ) of the pattern (17) distinct from the first part (27), the third optical shutter (35) selectively adopting a translucent state or an opaque state;
- the computer (29) is programmed to command the third shutter (35) as a function of the state of the command (15), the computer (29) being programmed to command the third shutter (35) to adopt the state translucent in the first state of the command (15), the computer (29) being programmed to command the third shutter (35) to adopt the translucent state temporarily or permanently in the second state of the command (15). Interior structure according to Claims 3 and 4, in which the computer (29) is programmed to command the first, second and third shutters (25, 31, 35) to each adopt the opaque state when the light source (21) is inactive. Interior structure according to Claims 3 and 4 or according to Claim 5, in which the pattern (17) and the first, second and third shutters (25, 31, 35) are configured to reveal in the translucent zone (5) a first pattern (39) in the first state of the command (15) and a second pattern (41) in the second state of the command (15),
the first pattern and the second pattern (39, 41) overlapping at the third part (37);
the first part (27) is part of the second pattern (41);
the second part (33) is part of the first pattern (39). Interior structure according to claim 4 or 5, in which
the computer (29) is programmed to command the third shutter (35) to adopt the translucent state in a transient manner in the second state of the command (15), the third shutter (35) adopting the translucent state in a plurality first time slots (T1) predetermined and adopting the opaque state in a plurality of second time slots (T2) predetermined interposed between the first time slots (T1);
the computer (29) is programmed to command the first shutter (25) to adopt the translucent state in a transient manner in the second state of the command (15), the first shutter (25) adopting the translucent state in a plurality third predetermined time slots (T3) superimposed on the second time slots (T2) and adopting the opaque state between said third predetermined time slots (T3). Interior structure according to Claim 7, in which the light source (21) is configured to confer on the light beam selectively at least a first color (C1) or a second color (C2), the computer (29) being programmed to command the light source (21) to give the light beam the first color (C1) during the first time slots (T1) and to give the light beam the second color (C2) during the third time slots (T3). Interior structure according to claim 8, in which
- at least a fourth optical shutter (47) is interposed on a path of the light beam between the light source (21) and the translucent zone (5), the fourth shutter (47) being placed facing a fourth part (49 ) of the pattern (17) distinct from the first and third parts (27, 37), the fourth optical shutter (47) selectively adopting a translucent state or an opaque state;
- the computer (29) is programmed to command the fourth shutter (47) as a function of the state of the command (15), the computer (29) being programmed to command the fourth shutter (47) to adopt the state opaque in the first state of the command (15), the computer (29) being programmed to command the fourth shutter (47) to adopt the translucent state in a transient manner in the second state of the command (15), the fourth shutter (47) adopting the translucent state in a plurality of predetermined fourth time slots (T4) superimposed on the second time slots (T2) and interposed between the third time slots (T3), and adopting the opaque state between said fourth predetermined time slots (T4);
- the computer (29) being programmed to command the light source (21) to give the light beam a third color (C3) during the fourth time slots (T4). A vehicle comprising an interior structure according to any preceding claim.