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A method of manufacturing an automotive instrument panel that conceals an airbag. The steps of manufacturing the instrument panel include providing a molded substrate having first and second surfaces and an aperture therethough, and a metal door having a generally U-shaped slot secured to the second

A method of manufacturing an automotive instrument panel that conceals an airbag. The steps of manufacturing the instrument panel include providing a molded substrate having first and second surfaces and an aperture therethough, and a metal door having a generally U-shaped slot secured to the second surface of the substrate with a plurality of attaching posts. The slot has first and second ends being spaced apart a distance greater than the length of the aperture. The slot defines a flap in the door. The flap has a width greater than the width of the aperture. The door and substrate assembly is placed within a mold tool and a pre-molded covering is juxtaposed the substrate. A quantity of foam is injected between the substrate and covering and secures the covering to the substrate.

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[ What is claimed:] [16.] An automotive instrument panel having a concealed air bag comprising:a molded substrate having first and second surfaces and an aperture having a length and allowing the inflation of an air bag therethrough;a metal door having a curved shape secured to the second surface of

[ What is claimed:] [16.] An automotive instrument panel having a concealed air bag comprising:a molded substrate having first and second surfaces and an aperture having a length and allowing the inflation of an air bag therethrough;a metal door having a curved shape secured to the second surface of said substrate by a plurality of bolts extending through said substrate, said metal door having a generally U-shaped slot with first and second ends spaced apart a distance greater than the length of said aperture, said slot being positioned radially outwardly of said aperture, said door also having a plurality of indentations to aid in retaining said curved shape;a molded covering overlying said second surface and said door and being secured thereto with an intermediate layer of foam, said covering having a tear-groove radially outwardly of said slot; andan air bag chute secured to said bolts, said air bag positioned within said air bag chute and folding said door along a line between said first and second ends and tearing said covering along said tear-grove when inflated.