Abstract: A device and a method for forming a weakening area in an airbag cover having a support layer and a decorative layer over the support layer include a cutting support and a cutter. The support supports the airbag cover with the decorative layer side facing down and the cutter is displaceably positionable over the support. A tear line of a predetermined pattern is formed through the support layer and into the decorative layer with the cutter while controlling the depth of cut relative to the support to precisely control the residual thickness of the tear line and to prevent the cutter from penetrating through the decorative layer. The controller controllably displaces the cutter for precise controlled cut.

Abstract: The invention relates to an array for activating the horn in built-in modular steering wheels, wherein the cover of the airbag that is placed on top of the air bag unit forms part of the steering wheel rim. According to the invention, the air bag unit (5) is fixed to at least one contact of the horn (17) that is connected thereto and is fixed to at least one section of the steering wheel (4). Said section is elastically deformable in the direction of the corresponding mating contact (18). The air bag unit (5) is placed preferably in an elastically deformable section of the air bag cover (2).