Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a method for attaching a steering wheel to a steering column. In a preferred embodiment, the attachment apparatus comprises a steering wheel armature having a collar for receiving a steering column. Preferably, the steering column includes a tapered portion adjacent a slotted portion, which is located between a flange and the tapered portion. The steering wheel armature is placed on the steering column with the flange and slot portion extending through the collar and above the steering wheel armature. A wedge having a ramped portion that surrounds a slot, which has a width adapted to accommodate the slotted portion of the steering column, is driven in a direction which forces the ramped portion underneath the flange of the steering column. The driving of the wedge forces the steering wheel armature against the tapered portion of the steering column and forms a wedge lock between the steering wheel armature collar and the steering column tapered portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a steering wheel and airbag assembly and an integrated steering wheel assembly having a unique tear seam design. The tear seam is incorporated in an airbag scrim that covers the airbag when the airbag is mounted in the steering wheel assembly. In the most preferred embodiment the tear seam is a straight line that bisects the airbag scrim. The tear seam is formed from three walls joined by a first joint and a second joint. The first joint is substantially a right angle joint and the second joint is a radiused joint. Because of its shape, the first joint is less fracture resistant than the second joint. The tear seam design permits a more efficient deployment of the airbag.