Abstract: A break-away fastening system for securing an air bag deployment door in position closing a panel opening used for air bag deployment includes a fastener extending from the door toward a facing edge flange of the panel around the panel opening. The fastener includes a head at an end portion directed toward the edge flange and adapted to be inserted through an aperture provided therein as the door is moved into place covering the panel opening. After full insertion, fingers of the head snap outwardly away from each other on an opposite side of the edge flange to lock the head and thus secure the door firmly in place. The fastener has at least one frangible section of reduced cross-section between the door and the edge flange which section is fractured or broken upon deployment of the air bag against the door as it moves through the panel opening.

Abstract: The deployable door of a passenger-side vehicle airbag restraint system is simultaneously fastened into an instrument panel opening and into engagement with the airbag module reaction canister. A spring clip on the canister receives a probe which is secured to the door through a pivoted breakaway connection. The probe is easily inserted into the clip but can be withdrawn only with difficulty. Airbag inflation thereafter separates the breakaway connection preferentially to the spring clip connection.

Abstract: A fastening method and apparatus for attaching an automotive vehicle instrument panel air bag deployment door, an air bag module cover, to a passenger air bag module reaction canister. The apparatus provides a reliable cover release mechanism during an air bag deployment while allowing relative flexibility between the cover and reaction canister. The flexibility feature eliminates tolerance stack up problems by allowing the cover to locate off the instrument panel where it is intended to fit.