Abstract: An air bag module for a steering wheel includes an inflator, cushion, retainer ring, cover and a mounting plate with snap-in attachment studs. A wire spring fastening system is used to secure the module to the steering wheel. The system includes a retainer mechanism and a serpentine engagement wire which engages notches in the snap-in attachment studs. The retention mechanism also includes an alignment guide that is used with a disassembly tool to remove the air bag module from the steering wheel.

Abstract: A vehicle steering wheel includes an annular metal core with a molded plastic body and may include an outer molded layer of vinyl, wrap of leather or the like. A recess is provided extending along the inside rim of the wheel. An elastomeric cover, such as urethane rubber, covers the switch. Annular voids in the elastomeric cover may be selectively placed to provide the desired resilient characteristic. The strip switch preferably includes two outer strips and one inner strip of thin, flexible plastic. Electrically conductive, silver ink coatings are provided on the two outer strips facing each other to form strip contacts and having leads connected to the horn circuit. An inner strip or ribbon forms an insulator with openings to allow engagement of the two conductor strips under tactile pressure at any point around the rim. The inner ribbon is coated on both sides with adhesive to hold the strips together in an integral unit.