David N Short

US Patent:

6435546, Aug 20, 2002

Filed:

Aug 30, 1999

Appl. No.:

09/385613

Inventors:

David F. Scherer - Ortonville MI
Mark M. Klozik - Shelby Township MI
Gregory R. Kigar - Toledo OH
David A. Short - Macomb MI
Douglas M. Gould - Lake Orion MI
Jerri A. Brachel - Macomb MI
Chienhom Lee - Rochester Hills MI

Assignee:

TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. - Lyndhurst OH

International Classification:

B60R 2116

US Classification:

280731, 2807283, 200 6155

Abstract:

A cover assembly ( ) for covering an inflatable occupant protection device ( ) comprises a cover ( ). The cover ( ) has an inner surface ( ) for facing the inflatable occupant protection device and a manually depressible outer surface ( ). An electrical switch ( ) is actuatable by manual depression of the outer surface ( ). A backer plate ( ) supports the electrical switch ( ) adjacent the inner surface ( ). A plurality of openings ( ) extend through the backer plate ( ). A rib ( ) extends from the inner surface ( ) of the cover ( ) around at least a portion of the periphery of the electrical switch ( ). A plurality of stakes ( ) extend from the inner surface ( ) through the plurality of openings ( ) in the backer plate ( ). Each of the plurality of stakes ( ) has a portion ( ) connected with the rib ( ) to hold the backer plate ( ) on the cover ( ).