Abstract: An improved seat belt latchplate having a plurality or ribs in a web-guiding slot for resisting, roping and twisting of a seat belt webbing.

Abstract: An airbag cover assembly comprises a molded plastic airbag door hinged to a molded plastic instrument panel to cover an airbag opening in the instrument panel. At least one hinge member is integrally molded on a portion of the door. At least one hinge member is integrally molded on a portion of the instrument panel. The hinge members are shaped to define aligned channels. A hinge pin extends through the aligned panels to pivotally mount the door.

Abstract: An instrument panel assembly comprises an instrument panel wall having an opening through which an air bag is deployed. The opening is normally closed by a pair of doors. Each door has a metal door panel provided with an integral hinge extending along the curved edge of the opening. The hinge is curved to match the curve of the edge. The hinge is slotted at spaced points along its length. A plastic pad covers the swinging edge portion of each door panel. The pads and slots resist kinking of the hinges when the doors swing open.

Abstract: A panel for an automotive vehicle comprising a wall having an opening, and an integral closure normally closing the opening and behind which an airbag is adapted to be stored. The closure comprises a pair of panels each connected to the wall of the instrument panel by an integral, flexible hinge. The panels are capable of swinging open in response to the force of impact of the airbag when the airbag inflates to that the inflating airbag may deploy through the opening. The hinges each have a trough-like arcuate portion adapted to absorb at least some of the force of impact of the inflating airbag and relieve stress and increase flexibility along the hinge to resist breaking of the doors when they swing open.