Importance

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Abstract

An improved driver air bag module cover having a unitary membrane switch assembly including a central horn switch and adjacent accessory switches independently operable in response to user-imparted pressure-induced deformation of the cover front face. Preferably a single sheet of membrane material carries the horn switch, adjacent accessory switches, electrical leads, and connector. Preferably, the U-shaped central tear seam provides a major central portion for placement of the horn switch at a center location of a steering wheel. Cover side walls further locally enforce the cover to prevent inadvertent activation of adjacent accessory switches. Buttons integrally formed in the cover over such switches are preferably formed from a translucent material to provide for backlighting with an electroluminescent sheet. Finally, the central backing plate directly molded into the cover back face entraps the horn switch and membrane to the back of the cover. Additionally, local backing plates mount the peripheral portions of the membrane, including the accessory switches, along with any electroluminescent sheet underneath the outer peripheral portions of the cover.

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First Claim