Abstract: A lift assist system for a tow bar. The system exerts a force exerted on the tow bar to generate an upward moment that counters a downward moment generated by the weight of the tow bar assembly. The greatest upward moments are generated from a lowered configuration through at least a horizontal configuration of the tow bar, thereby providing the greatest degree of lift assistance for the operator when the downward moments are the greatest. A stop assembly may be included that limits how far the tow bar can arc below the equilibrium height in normal operation to prevent the tow bar from reaching the ground during a free fall, thus providing a measure of safety against injury to operating personnel. The lift assist system may depend from flexible suspension members to protect components from excessive stresses in the event of a forced grounding of the tow bar.

Abstract: User disposable sleeves for use with sound controlling structures having a non-constant radial profile can include an inner portion adapted to releasably attach to the sound controlling structure and an outer portion adapted to fit within a user's ear canal. The user disposable sleeve can include holding means configured to releasably secure the sleeve to the elongate sound controlling structure and fitment means configured to conform to an inner surface of an ear. The fitment means can be fixedly disposed over the holding means.

Abstract: A user-disposable member for placement and retention within the auditory anatomy, such as an ear canal. The user-disposable member includes a polymeric foam material, wherein the user-disposable member has a first portion having a peripheral outer surface having a first coefficient of friction, and a second portion having a peripheral outer surface having a second coefficient of friction different from the first coefficient of friction.

Abstract: Adapters for use with sound devices and methods for making and using the same. In some embodiments, an example adapter may include an adapter body having a first side, a port or projection extending from the first side, and a second side. The second side is generally configured to be attachable to a sound device such as an earbud or earbud-type of headphone. The projection may include a sleeve attached thereto. The projection and sleeve are generally configured to at least in part extend into the ear canal of a user during use.

Abstract: User disposable sleeves for use with sound controlling structures having a non-constant radial profile can include an inner portion adapted to releasably attach to the sound controlling structure and an outer portion adapted to fit within a user's ear canal. The user disposable sleeve can include holding means configured to releasably secure the sleeve to the elongate sound controlling structure and fitment means configured to conform to an inner surface of an ear. The fitment means can be fixedly disposed over the holding means.