MODULAR STEERING WHEEL AND AIR BAG COMBINATION

摘要

A combined steering wheel and air bag modular unit is ultimately assembled. A cover (24) is first molded around a steering wheel insert (22). The cover (24) is molded as a single piece over the wheel and the area where the air bag module will be placed. In the past, two separate covers were utilized since the air bag was generally attached to the steering wheel after the steering wheel had been attached to the vehicle. The modular unit (26) is then attached from the side to the vehicle steering column shaft (32). The present invention results in increased flexibility in the location of where manufacturing steps occur, and improves the aesthetic appearance of the cover for the steering wheel and air bag.