Abstract: An airbag module diffuser having a pair of flange extensions that fit within an open mouth of an airbag cushion secured within a reaction canister of an airbag module assembly, preventing the mouth from collapsing inwardly during inflation of the airbag cushion. The flange extensions also contain a folded portion of the airbag cushion within open ends of the reaction canister independently of a pair of endplates that attach to the canister over the open ends, preventing the folded portion of the airbag cushion from being pinched by the endplates upon their assembly.

Abstract: A packaging strap or tether for a driver side air bag cushion is integral with the material of the air bag and attached at opposite ends to a studded ring to retain the air bag in its folded condition during initial assembly and subsequent servicing of the air bag module. Made of a material similar to that of the air bag, the tether must be wide enough to control the folded cushion, but notched at a point along its length to reduce its tensile strength to such an extent that it will break on module deployment without adversely affecting module performance.