April 2007 - Glenair, Inc.

Glenair Swing-Arm:
The Sky's the Limit
The Glenair Swing-Arm Strain-Relief Backshell is ideally suited for use in avionics, data
and communications systems, instrumentation, sensing systems, lighting, flap and actuator
controls, landing gear, seat controllers, and in-flight entertainment systems. The Swing-Arm protects
investments in connection systems while enhancing EMI/RFI shielding. Lightweight, rugged,
corrosion free, and versatile, the Glenair Swing-Arm is the perfect choice to help both commercial
and defense aircraft manufacturers realize their plans for unparalleled fuel efficiency, dramatic
reductions in assembly times for interconnrect systems, and improved stock-keeping economies.
QwikConnect would like to draw your attention to the evolution of the Swing-Arm by describing
three key applications: The F-22 Raptor, the Bell Helicopter 429 and the new Boeing Company 787
Dreamliner. In the early 1990s, Glenair was tapped to solve a major problem on the F-22. Program
engineers were looking to reduce the weight of backshells while maintaining the strength,
performance and flammability characteristics of heavier metal parts. Although it did not
yet have the articulating arm, the Series 440 Composite Shield-Sock Backshell
Glenair designed for the F-22 had the same internal
grounding ring with interlocking teeth for positive
Bell Helicopter adopted Swing-Arm for its new Bell 429 model. The
Bell 429 is an advanced, lightweight, twin engine helicopter developed
primarily for emergency medical applications. Similar to the F-22,
weight reduction and performance in harsh conditions were
paramount requirements for connector accessories on the Bell 429.
Swing-Arm has performed so well that Bell is specifying it on additional
new commercial and military programs.
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QwikConnect
April 2007