Abstract: A device for the treatment of hemorrhoids. The device has a body with an external surface, and comprises an elastic and pliable material, allowing said body to be bent and inserted between the buttocks of a patient, so that the external surface can support any hemorrhoids in contact with the external surface, while the tension of said body allows the device to be held in place by the buttocks, while said body remains in a bent state. The device can be used for the treatment of hemorrhoids, fecal incontinence, flatulence or rectal prolapse.

Abstract: A shoulder support sleeve and vest having a vest section oriented on the torso of a patient, and a sleeve section integrated with the vest section, which is placed on an affected shoulder and arm portion of the patient. An inflatable bladder is attached to a back of the sleeve section and the vest section. An air pump is attached to the inflatable bladder, and is positioned to be accessible by the patient's non-affected arm/hand. The patient uses the air pump to inflate the inflatable bladder device to support the affected shoulder of the patient. The inflatable bladder can be removably attached to the sleeve and vest sections.

Abstract: An orthesis for stabilizing a joint has a joint rail having a first and a second rail portion which can be pivoted relative to each other about a joint axle. The orthesis has a pressure member which can be adjusted by a relative pivoting of the two rail portions about the joint axle in the direction towards and counter to the joint to be stabilized. One of the two rail portions has a cam disc, and the other of the two rail portions has a rotor which is guided on the cam disc, wherein the cam disc or the rotor is axially fixed in position on the correction pad.

Abstract: A reversible ankle brace is easy to use, is comfortable for the wearer and is reversible. Accordingly, a wearer may use the inventive ankle brace on either their left foot, to support their left ankle, or their right foot, to support their right ankle, without having to purchase more than one ankle brace.

Abstract: A moldable ankle flexible brace is disclosed. The flexible ankle brace may include a heat-moldable, multi-layer leg support portion, a heat-moldable, multi-layer foot support portion, a pair of hinges connecting the leg support portion to the foot support portion, an opening for receiving a user's ankle, and a closure mechanism. The flexible ankle brace may include a middle layer that is substantially stiff at a temperature below about 130° F. and moldable at temperatures above 130° F. Also disclosed is a method of using a flexible ankle brace to treat an ankle. The method may include, for example, heating the brace to above 130 ° F. placing the heated brace on a patient's ankle and molding the brace to conform to the shape of the patient's ankle.

Abstract: A moldable rigid ankle brace is disclosed. The rigid stabilizing ankle brace includes a heat-moldable multi-layer housing having an opening for receiving a user's ankle, a footplate attached to the housing, and a closure mechanism. The multi-layer housing includes a middle layer, which is substantially stiff at a temperature below about 130° F. and moldable at temperatures between about 130° F. and 275° F. A method of stabilizing an ankle is also disclosed. The method may include providing a rigid stabilizing ankle brace, having a heat-moldable multi-layer housing having an opening for receiving a user's ankle, and a footplate removably attached to said housing, heating the ankle brace to between about 130° F. to about 275° F.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a protective device which comprises an orthosis configured to be received against the upper front torso of a subject adjacent the subject's breasts, so as to restrict or eliminate stress on the breasts resulting from an external load applied to the upper front torso, the device including means for removably holding the orthosis to the subject or to an object applying the load such that the orthosis is so received. Also disclosed herein is an orthosis arranged to be received between the upper front torso of a subject and a support through which a load is applied to the upper front torso, to restrict or eliminate stress on the subject's breasts resulting from the load, the orthosis comprising a generally hollow resiliently deformable body defined by a wall of the orthosis, the body being arranged to contact the subject adjacent the breasts, and resiliently deformable ribbing within the body to support the wall, whereby the orthosis deforms resiliently when so received.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a cervical spine protection apparatus one or more composite bands attached to provide restraint of one or more motions of the cervical spine of a wearer. The apparatus is designed to protect a wearer from incurring cervical spinal injuries, and/or to reduce the severity of cervical spine injuries without substantially compromising the normal functional range of motion of the wearer's cervical spine.

Abstract: Cervical neck brace comprises an anterior brace element, and a posterior brace element which is engaged or engagable with the anterior brace element. The anterior brace element is positionable anteriorly on a user to extend across a cervical vertebral region, and the posterior brace element is positionable posteriorly on the user to extend across the cervical vertebral region. The posterior brace element is a sheet including a central support, an occipital support, and two activation arms, which are hingably connected to the central support. The posterior brace element has a first storage condition and a second in-use condition. A posterior cervical neck brace device and a method of supporting a vertebral region of a user are also provided.

Abstract: Adjustable collars providing improved levels of adjustability and ease of use are provided. Some adjustable collars can comprise a chin piece coupled to a collar body via a chin support that is pivotally and slidably coupled with the collar body and allows for an adjustment of a position of the chin piece relative to the collar body.

Abstract: A nasal dilator having a constructed truss member consisting of an adhesive backing, an adhesive layer, a resilient layer, and a cover layer coupled to the adhesive layer and whereby the resilient layer is disposed between the cover layer and the adhesive layer. Any at least one cover, adhesive or backing layer consists of a top edge having a first notch arranged substantially horizontally along the top edge and disposed perpendicular to the common centerline, the first notch intermediate to and connecting to an upwardly and outwardly diverging first-left and first-right portion of the top edge, a bottom edge disposed opposite the top edge, the bottom edge having a second notch arranged substantially horizontally along the bottom edge and disposed perpendicular to the common centerline, the second notch intermediate to and connecting to an downwardly and outwardly diverging second-left and second-right portion of the bottom edge.

Abstract: Medical devices are disclosed as providing nasal airway dilation in subjects in need thereof whose nasal airways are partially or completely blocked, such as for sleep; with CPAP masks; for exercise; wearing goggles alone or with helmets; and for swimming. In an aspect, the devices with a group of applications provide nasal dilation to overcome obstruction caused by nasal valve dysfunction. Methods of employing the same to dilate nasal airways are further disclosed.

Abstract: A strip device for improving visual safety or for providing medicaments comprising a first layer comprising any combination of a reflective layer, a medicament layer, or both, and a constructed truss member consisting of an adhesive backing, an adhesive layer, a resilient layer, and a cover layer coupled to the adhesive layer and whereby the resilient layer is disposed between the cover layer and the adhesive layer.

Abstract: A neck-worn arm rest device receives and supports both of a user's arms proximate the user's chest. The device includes a main panel having a first end and a second end. The main panel is positioned to form a sleeve. The sleeve defines a channel configured for receiving both arms of a user therein to support the arms within the channel. A strap is coupled to and extends outwardly from the main panel. The strap is configured for being worn around a neck of the user. A pocket is coupled to an exterior surface of the main panel. The pocket has an open top end a closed bottom end.

Abstract: This invention is a universal, cost effective, disposable, restraint strap system. This invention provides a way for emergency medicine field providers to quickly and effectively secure their patients to a rigid type backboard to immobilize the patient. This immobilization will facilitate safe and secure movement of the patient to and from transport vehicles. The securing straps on this invention easily adjust allowing best positioning of the straps depending on the circumstances presented. Specifically, the straps adjust allowing the user to position the straps for optimal placement depending on the size of the patient (both adult and child).

Abstract: [Problem] To catch excreta whether a person is sitting or supine and essentially independent of movements of the person's body. [Solution] The diaper unit is configured from: an outer diaper wrapper (2), which encloses an artificial gluteal block constructed from an elastic member and which is provided with a cover (20) on which hook end loop fasteners (26aa) are provided at least on the portion that faces a person's gluteal region when worn; and an inner diaper wrapper (3) provided with a main diaper body (30), which has an opening (36) at the section of the diaper for handling feces and which adheres to the outer diaper wrapper (2) by means of the hook and loop fasteners (26aa) of the outer diaper wrapper (2), and a fecal bag (40) the interior of which is water-absorbing and the exterior of which is waterproof, which is bonded to the opening (36) of the diaper body (30) and is accommodated in a hole in the outer diaper wrapper.

Abstract: Provided is a snoring prevention device provided to be mounted in the mouth to prevent snoring during sleep and provided to reduce a volume of the device and improve a wearing feeling. The snoring prevention device includes an upper jaw mounting frame having an upper tooth insertion groove into which the upper teeth are inserted, and configured to be mounted on the upper jaw, a lower jaw mounting frame having a lower tooth insertion groove into which the lower teeth are inserted, and configured to be mounted on the lower jaw, and a lower jaw advance unit including a push rod provided at the upper jaw mounting frame at a portion of a center of the upper jaw corresponding to the front tooth side such that the lower jaw is advanced by pushing the lower jaw mounting frame forward when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are closed.

Abstract: Mandibular advancement device (1; 20) and a device preparation method and kit, comprising a mouthpiece (2) and at least one plastic strap (5; 21) with two ends (7) fitted with a slot (9) that is connected articulately to a respective cylindrical portion (11) of a lateral protrusion (10) of the mouthpiece (2). The slot (9) is closed and is longer in length than the diameter of the cylindrical portion (11), which can move along the slot (9). The strap (5; 21) acts by traction between the cylindrical portions (11) of the mouthpiece (2) to prevent the free return of the lower portion (4) with respect to the upper portion (3) of the mouthpiece (2) and therefore treats apnea, whilst allowing some advancement and lateral movement of the lower portion (4), making it comfortable for the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to chastity devices, particularly to size-adjustable male chastity devices that may permanently affixed to the scrotum and penis of the user and are substantially non-removable.

Abstract: Provided are devices for heating, cooling, or maintaining temperature of mammalian tissue. Also provided are methods for using the same. The devices optionally include a plurality of thermoelectric modules. The modules are selectively operable in temporal and spatial dimensions.

Abstract: Treatment systems, methods, and apparatuses for improving the appearance of skin or other target regions are described. Aspects of the technology are directed to improving the appearance of skin by tightening the skin, improving skin tone or texture, eliminating or reducing wrinkles, increasing skin smoothness, or improving the appearance sites with cellulite. Treatments can include cooling a surface of a patient's skin and detecting freezing in the cooled skin. The tissue can be cooled after the freeze event is detected so to maintain the frozen state of the tissue to improve the appearance of the treatment site.

Abstract: Treatment systems, methods, and apparatuses for improving the appearance of skin or other target regions are described as well as for providing for other treatments. Aspects of the technology are directed to improving the appearance of skin by tightening the skin, improving skin tone or texture, eliminating or reducing wrinkles, increasing skin smoothness, or improving the appearance of cellulite. Treatments can include cooling a surface of a patient's skin and detecting at least one freeze event in the cooled skin. The treatment system can continue cooling the patient's skin after the freeze event(s) are detected so to maintain at least a partially frozen state of the tissue for a period of time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a heating and/or cooling assembly such as a heat pad. The assembly includes a plurality of modules articulated together by connection means so that the assembly can be manipulated by a user to adopt a desired profile. At least one of the modules contains a thermal store in the form of a solid, liquid or gel responsive to heating or cooling externally applied to the assembly so that the solid, liquid or gel is heated or cooled, respectively, and remains in a heated or cooled state for a prolonged period of time after the externally applied heating or cooling is removed.

Abstract: An ultrasonic eye cleaning device comprises a body having an internal cavity and an end. The device further comprises a motor within the internal cavity, wherein the motor has a rotating output member. The device further comprises a chuck driven by the rotating output member of the motor. The device further comprises a piezo driver cooperating with the body and at least one of the rotating output member or the chuck to oscillate the chuck at 20 kHz to 100 MHz. The device further comprises an instrument that is attachable to the chuck and defining a free end forming a cleaning swab.

Abstract: A plug member integrally includes a base portion (35a) attached to a plug holder (31) to be mounted on a mouth portion of a container, a plug (34) engaged with an engagement portion (31c) provided in an outlet passage of the plug holder (31), and a resilient connection portion (35b) resiliently connecting the plug (34) to the base portion (35a). Before the first use, the outlet passage is closed with the plug member. In the first use, the container is squeezed to increase the internal pressure of the container. Thus, the plug (34) is disengaged from the engagement portion (31c) by the internal pressure. The outlet passage is thereafter constantly kept open.

Abstract: This invention relates to a contact lens tweezers, which comprising two tips for gripping contact lens; and two thin rods that are extended from the bottom of two tips and connect to legs, which are used for supporting two tips, the two thin rods having high flexibility, bendable and hard to fracture. The two thin rods are bendable to enable the two tips to be more fit with the contact lens when used to remove the contact lens. The tips of this invention are provided with a convex structure to increase the friction area between the tips and contact lens, so that the contact lens gripping operation can be easily performed via the contact lens tweezers. And the bottom surfaces of the two tips and the convex structure of the contact lens tweezers form a curved structure, which prevents the eyes being pierced by the tips when removing the contact lens.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for the diagnosis and removal of the devitalized and/or dead cell material formed in the lid margin to attempt to restore a normal lid margin. In this manner, the devitalized and/or dead cell material are removed or the amount present is reduced or no longer present to prevent, reduce, or affect the transport of lipid secreted by the meibomian glands to the tear film to reduce evaporative dry eye and improve dry eye conditions in patients. The diagnosis and removal of devitalized and/or dead cell material may be performed at desired intervals. Patients that suffer from conditions that block meibomian gland orifices, partial, infrequent, or inhibited blinking resulting in reduced lipid secretions from meibomian glands, and/or blockages in meibomian gland channels reducing secretion of lipids through the meibomian gland orifices may require more frequent diagnosis and treatment to remove devitalized and/or dead cell material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering energy during a surgical procedure such as phacoemulsification is provided. The method and apparatus include applying energy during at least one pulsed energy on period, comprising applying energy during a series of short burst periods, the short burst periods interspersed by short rest periods. The method and apparatus further comprise delivering minimal energy during a long off period, the long off period comprising a relatively long period when minimal energy is applied, wherein one long off period follows each pulsed energy on period. The short burst periods and the short rest periods are relatively brief in duration as compared with the long off period.

Abstract: A surgical device is disclosed for cutting tissue, including for performing a capsulotomy of a lens capsule of an eye. This device includes a reversibly collapsible cutting element for cutting a portion of a capsule membrane of the eye. The cutting element includes an outer layer, an inner layer, and a bottom layer that has a higher electrical resistance than the electrical resistance of the outer layer and the inner layer. The bottom layer is configured to conduct an electrical current between the outer layer and the inner layer, which causes a temperature increase in the bottom layer for cutting tissue.

Abstract: A cartridge of a surgical device is disclosed that includes a capsulotomy device and a shell structure. The capsulotomy device includes a suction cup, a chamber configured to provide suction to the suction cup, and a cutting element that can be put into contact with a lens capsule of an eye to excise a portion of tissue of the lens capsule. Both the suction cup and cutting element are collapsible. The shell structure is configured for housing the capsulotomy device. The housing of the shell structure can contain the suction cup, the chamber, and the cutting element of the capsulotomy device to protect the device before it is used in performing a capsulotomy.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implant for reducing ocular hypertension. Said implant can be used in particular to prevent and treat glaucomas that are emerging or occur. In particular, the implant is an implant (10) for the Schlemm's canal, which comprises a bridge (20), which has a first end point (22) and a second end point (24) and a first support region (26), a second support region (28), and a connecting piece (30), the bridge (20) extending along a first line (L1) from the first end point (22) to the second end point (24) across the first support region (26), the connecting piece (30), and the second support region (28) and the connecting piece (30) having a first cross-sectional area on average along the first line (L1) and the first support region (26) having a second cross-sectional area on average along the first line (L1) after the implantation, characterized in that the second cross-sectional area is at least 50% larger than the first cross-sectional area.

Abstract: Embodiments of this disclosure disclose an imaging system, including an eye interface device, a scanning assembly, a beam source, a free-floating mechanism, and a detection assembly. The beam source generates an electromagnetic radiation beam. The detection assembly generates a signal indicative of an intensity of a portion of the electromagnetic radiation beam reflected from the focal point location. A subsequent focal point of the electromagnetic radiation beam may be adjusted per the measured intensity signal. In some embodiments, an intensity signal below a lower threshold value may suggest a depth increase for a subsequent focal point. An intensity signal above an upper threshold value may suggest a depth decrease for a subsequent focal point. And, an intensity signal between the lower and upper thresholds may suggest a depth be maintained for a subsequent focal point. The focal point may be adjusted after each pulse or after a plurality of pulses.

Abstract: Apparatus described herein include ear warmer frames. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a frame configured to be disposed about a portion of a head of a user. The frame includes a first member and a second member. The first member has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the first member has a cross-sectional profile, and the second portion of the first member has a cross-sectional profile smaller than the cross-sectional profile of the first portion of the first member. An end portion of the second member has a cross-sectional profile substantially corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the first portion of the first member. The second member defines an opening configured to receive the second portion of the first member such that when the frame is in a collapsed configuration an abutment interface is defined, and surfaces of the abutment interface are substantially continuous between the first member and the second member.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed relating to the creation and use of bespoke wound fillers and other wound treatment apparatuses. Some embodiments provide for the creation of bespoke wound fillers based on characteristics of a wound. Certain embodiments also include the use of bespoke wound fillers in combination with negative pressure to treat a wound.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to negative pressure treatment systems and wound dressing systems, apparatuses, and methods that may be used for the treatment of wounds. In particular, some embodiments are directed to improved wound dressings comprising an obscuring layer that may hide fluid contained therein. Some embodiments may further comprise one or more viewing windows disposed therethrough so as to enable monitoring or examination of fluids contained therein.

Abstract: A middle part in the width direction of a three-dimensional gather of an absorbent article is joined with a side edge portion of a liquid permeable surface sheet, and a folded portion folded back to a side at an inner side of the joint portion is formed. The folded portion is defined by an end area, a urinary-opening facing area, and a middle area. In the end area and the middle area, a portion on an inner side in the width direction of the folded portion is joined with the liquid permeable surface sheet, and a projection with an end of a portion on an outer side in the width direction rather than the joint portion as a free end portion is formed.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a chassis and an absorbent assembly. The absorbent assembly is formed separately from the chassis, and attached to the chassis by an attachment area. The attachment area includes a front attachment zone, a rear attachment zone, and a central attachment zone extending between the front and rear attachment zones. The front and rear attachment zones have a first width and a second width, respectively, and the central attachment zone has a third width less than the first and second widths.

Abstract: Absorbent articles that include elastics in multiple layers are disclosed herein.

Abstract: A method of making an elastic composite is described that entails conveying a first sheet of material on a conveyor, and wrapping a section of elastic about the first sheet and the conveyor, thereby applying elastics cross directionally across the first sheets. A second sheet of material is applied onto the first sheet having elastics applied thereon, thereby creating a subcomposite including the first sheet, the second sheet, and elastics sandwiched therebetween, wherein a plurality of elastics extend outward from the one side of the subcomposite, about the conveyor, and return into an opposite side of the subcomposite.

Abstract: Absorbent article includes: a sheet-type leakage-preventing body; absorbent body on the leakage-preventing body top; pair of left and right floating leg gathers (FLGs) on the absorbent body top to extend in longitudinal direction from front end absorbent article main body, traversing a front main section, crotch part, and rear main section, to rear end. Each FLGs have top and trailing parts adjoining the top part. Left and right FLGs arrange so top parts face inwards and trailing parts face outwards. Front and rear ends FLGs are joined respectively to the vicinity of the absorbent article main body front and rear end. Trailing part trails downwards from top part towards the absorbent body. Left and right FLGs join in vicinity of trailing part lower end to the absorbent article main body and/or absorbent body surface forming front and rear pockets distance from the absorbent body surface in the crotch part vicinity.

Abstract: A diaper system for infants including a disposable, biodegradable inner insert and a reusable, washable outer cover. The insert is disposed next to the baby's body and absorbs liquid waste and captures solid waste. The cover holds the insert securely in place on the infant and serves as a backup for retention of liquid and solid waste. Periodically, the system is changed whereby the cover is removed, the insert is then removed from the infant and disposed of in garbage or the like, where it later biodegrades. The baby is cleaned and a fresh insert is applied. The same or a new cover is then applied and secured to hold the insert in place. The process can be repeated indefinitely and a relatively small number of reusable covers (for example 2 or 3) can be used, and cleaned periodically, with a larger number of disposable and biodegradable inserts (for example approximately 100 per month). Embodiments of the disposable insert and reusable cover are also disclosed.

Abstract: One purpose of the present invention is to provide a water-absorbent resin having excellent water absorption characteristics and being capable of improving the shape-retaining characteristics of a water-absorbent material when used in the water-absorbent material. A water-absorbent resin obtained by performing reversed phase suspension polymerization of a water-soluble ethylenically unsaturated monomer in a hydrocarbon dispersion medium, using a radical polymerization initiator, said resin being capable of having both excellent absorption performance and shape retention in a water-absorbent material using the water-absorbent resin, as a result of fulfilling the conditions of: (1) having a water-retention capacity of physiological saline of at least 38 g/g; (2) having a water-absorption capacity of physiological saline under a load of 4.14 kPa of at least 15 ml/g; and (3) having a tan ? of a 50-fold swollen gel of at least 2.10×10?2.

Abstract: A method of using absorbent sheets to collect sweat from body creases includes utilizing a plurality of absorbent sheets positioned into a high-perspiration body crease and attached to an external body surface. Once the plurality of absorbent sheets is positioned within the high-perspiration body crease, sweat is collected from the high-perspiration body crease within the plurality of absorbent sheets. A fragrant agent and an antimicrobial agent are present in the plurality of absorbent sheets in order to neutralize any odors due to sweat and any potentially harmful microorganisms in sweat. If the plurality of absorbent sheets becomes saturated with secreted sweat, the plurality of absorbent sheets is removed from the high-perspiration body crease. The plurality of absorbent sheets may be adapted to allow sweat to be collected from various regions of the body that are susceptible to excessive perspiration.

Abstract: A disposable, absorbent “moisture management” pad for use to absorb fluids secreted or discharged from a user. The pads will protect the skin area from exudates/drainage by absorbing large amounts of fluid and locking it into a super absorbent core that remains dry on the outer surface next to the skin. The pad contains an ultra-thin core containing super absorbent polymer and two layers of tissue substrates, a water impervious non-woven back sheet and a water pervious non-woven top sheet.

Abstract: An absorbent article is provided that can include a fastening system configured to attach the rear waist region to the front waist region to define a wear configuration of the absorbent article. The fastening system can comprise a primary fastening system and a secondary fastening system, the secondary fastening system including at least one secondary first fastening component and at least one secondary second fastening component. A region of flexibility can be provided between adjacent components of the absorbent article between the at least one secondary first fastening component and the bodyside liner in an area under the at least one secondary first fastening component.

Abstract: First-aid systems comprising an ultra compact first-aid pouch configured to fit behind the ballistic plates of a protective vest are disclosed. In this configuration, the first-aid kit is protected from shrapnel and tearing, is easily locatable and removable and does not effect the user's freedom of movement. When the first-aid pouch is removed from its protected location, it presents the first-aid equipment in a logical and easily viewable manner.

Abstract: A non-disposable medical device cover having an adhesive coating on one side of the cover and being to adhere to at least a spine board and a gurney mattress.

Abstract: The embodiments relate to a medical device and to a method for controlling a movement of the mobile medical device. The medical device includes a chassis and a control apparatus, wherein the medical device is embodied by the chassis to perform a movement in at least two spatial directions on a plane of motion and to execute a rotary movement about an axis of rotation standing perpendicularly on the plane of motion, and the control apparatus is embodied for controlling the chassis.

Abstract: A cot can include a support frame that extends between a front end and a back end. A front leg and a back leg can be slidingly coupled to the support frame. A front actuator can be coupled to the front leg and slide the front leg to retract and extend the front leg. A back actuator can be coupled to the back leg and slide the back leg to retract and extend the front leg. One or more processors can execute machine readable instructions to receive signals from one or more sensors indicative of the front end of the cot and the front leg. The one or more processors can actuate the back actuator to extend the back leg to raise the back end of the cot, when the front end of the cot is supported by a surface and the front leg is retracted a predetermined amount.

Abstract: A stair-climbing wheelchair comprising deformable main rear wheels comprising lockable suspension elements and front supporting wheels comprising lockable suspension elements is disclosed herein. The wheelchair may operate in at least two modes, a standard mode and a stairs mode. In standard mode, the wheelchair may operate similar to an ordinary basic wheelchair, with suspension elements locked and rigid. In stairs mode, the suspension elements may be activated and the rear wheels may be deformable to readily negotiate an uneven surface, wherein the front suspension elements may be elongated to provide balance while climbing. The operating principles behind the functionality of the device disclosed herein may also be applied to other devices used to negotiate stairs, such as devices used to move heavy appliances on stairs.