Patent attributes
A device (10) having a flexible elongated support member (11) having an upperside, an underside, and a first and second extension (16, 18) on either side of a central-portion, each of the first and second extensions have a free-end. A first and second strap portion (26, 27) affixed to and extending from the upperside between the free-ends of the support member (11). These strap portions are employed for positioning around the mass (20). A matable first and second coupling (28A, 28B) is attached to a free end-section of each of the first and second strap portions. The strap portions (26, 27) may be adjustable in length with each respective coupling being slidably attached to its respective free end-section. Extending from the underside of the support member and along each of the first and second extensions, is a respective first and second plurality of handles (12A, 12B, 12C, 14A, 14B, 14C) affixed to at least the underside. Also, a method of lifting to carry a mass (20) employing a device (10) comprising a flexible elongated support member (11) characterized herein. The method includes: placing the support member (11) under the mass (20) and positioning the first and second strap portion (26, 27) therearound; engaging a first and second coupling (28A, 28B) such that the mass fits snug within the strap portions; and grasping and applying a force to at least one handle from each of a first and second plurality of handles extending from, and affixed to, the underside along a respective one of the first and second extensions, to aid in the lifting.
