Compression-molded composite component having a sandwich structure and having integrally formed strengthening structures

A compression-molded, composite component having a sandwich structure for use in a vehicle, the component comprising:

• a first outer layer having an outer surface;
• a second outer layer;
• and
• a core positioned between the outer layers and having a large number of cavities, wherein the outer layers are bonded to the core by press molding and wherein the portions of at least one of the outer layers are sized, shaped and arranged laterally adjacent to each other in a pattern to provide the component with strength to resist deflection from a load at various positions and orientations at the outer surface.

A compression-molded, composite component having a sandwich structure for use in the interior of a vehicle, the component comprising:

• a first outer layer having an outer surface;
• a second outer layer;
• and
• a core positioned between the outer layers and having a large number of cavities, wherein the outer layers are bonded to the core by press molding and wherein portions of at least one of the outer layers are sized, shaped and arranged laterally adjacent to each other in a pattern to provide the component with strength to resist deflection from a load at various positions and orientations at the outer surface.