Abstract: A combined steering wheel and air bag modular unit is ultimately assembled. A cover is first molded around a steering wheel insert. The cover 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 is then attached from the side to the vehicle steering column shaft. 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.

Abstract: A modular steering wheel and airbag combination includes an airbag assembly, a steering wheel assembly and a separate hub plate. The combination is preassembled as a unitary component which can easily be attached to a steering column shaft. A taper or wedge lock is formed between the steering wheel armature and hub plate. The steering wheel assembly includes a plurality of ribs or spokes extending from an upper rim portion of the steering wheel assembly and a ring portion connecting the spokes to provide structural integrity and support to the steering wheel assembly. The airbag assembly includes a retaining ring as part of an airbag component which provides easy and secure attachment of the airbag component to the hub plate. The inventive steering wheel and airbag combination comprises a structure for securing the combination to a steering column shaft. One embodiment of the structure includes a worm gear and complementary gear. The complementary gear may be a helical gear.