Breeze-Eastern Corporation (NYSE: TDG) will unveil its new illuminated bumper, designed for quick and easy installation on any Breeze-Eastern hook assembly, this week at HAI HELI-EXPO 2017 in Dallas.

All three Breeze-Eastern rescue hooks, the lighted bumper and other company rescue hoist products will be featured at Exhibit 9334, where experts will be on hand to discuss design, performance and availability with attendees.

Powered by a long-life rechargeable battery, the illuminated bumper is in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification process, and approval is expected later this year. Breeze-Eastern developed the enhancement to meet a longstanding operator need for greater illumination and visibility when performing rescues in darkness or low-light conditions.

The bumper, which uses energy-efficient light-emitting diode (LED) elements for illumination, is suitable for military and commercial use, with an expected service life of 5,000 hours or five years of fielded service.

The FAA also recently approved the use of any of Breeze-Eastern’s three proven rescue hooks with any Breeze-Eastern rescue hoist. Previously, the hooks had been limited to use on specific hoists. The change will provide greater flexibility for operators on a wide range of helicopter lift, rescue and military transport missions.

“These are practical product improvements designed to help operators accomplish their rescue missions more safely and effectively,” said Rodger W. Hahneman, President of Breeze-Eastern. “Both are driven by customer requests, and we are pleased to offer them to the helicopter rescue community.”

The illuminated bumper easily fits around the coupling assembly of the rescue hook assembly. It is field-replaceable without disassembling hook components. The bumper, designed for use during hovering rescue missions, features 14 light tubes that are integrated into the structure. They are powered by two rechargeable batteries and provide adjustable light intensity with optical clarity up to 200m in low light at any angle.

The bumper’s rugged design makes it suitable for operation in extreme temperatures.

The enhancements are part of Breeze-Eastern’s ongoing commitment to bring new technologies and innovations to its customer base, which includes professionals in law enforcement, firefighting, transportation and the military, Hahneman noted.