AU2005228059A1 - Improvements in or relating to hanging a visual display - Google Patents

Description

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 Improvements in or relating to hanging a visual display Field of the invention The invention relates to hanging a visual display. More particularly, the invention 5 relates in a preferred aspect to a suspension device for hanging a banner or other visual display item from an elevated position. Background of the invention In this specification, where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item 10 of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date: (i) part of common general knowledge; or (ii) known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned. As used in the specification, the term "banner" includes other visual display items 15 suitable for hanging from a suspension device provided according to the present invention. It has long been a human practice to display pictures and other information on banners, and to mount the banners for convenient viewing. Frequently banners have been mounted on free standing or otherwise dedicated structures which hold the banners 20 upright to make them easier to read or see. More recently large buildings such as shopping centres, commercial buildings, theatres and large indoor sports stadiums have become centres of significant consumer traffic. Given that these types of areas have a high public access, it is advantageous for traders promoting or advertising their goods and services to secure advertising rights 25 within such areas and it is now common to find banners mounted vertically within such areas. Generally, the banners are mounted by attaching the banner to one or more mounting points which are integral with or attached to an elevated position such as a roof or ceiling. 30 Generally, a mounting point in a shopping centre or sports stadium is located several metres above the floor space. Consequently a combination of ladders, scaffolding and/or cherry-pickers is required for workers to access the mounting point in order to hang a banner.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 2 When using ladders or scaffolding to hang a banner from the mounting point, great care must be taken as banners can be quite heavy. There are also some risks posed to the workers which are inherent in the use of ladders and scaffolding. Furthermore, in some instances the use of ladders and scaffolding can be contrary to acceptable health 5 and work place practice or regulations. A cherry picker can alleviate some of these health issues but can be costly to hire and difficult to operate in a confined space. Furthermore, common procedures for hanging banners are labour intensive activities that, for safety reasons must be taken outside normal business hours. That also adds to the costs. 10 Therefore, there exists a need to provide a device for hanging a banner from an elevated position that is safe, easy to operate and cost efficient manner which allows for easy substitution of banners. Summary of the invention In one embodiment the present invention provides a suspension device for hanging a 15 banner or other visual display from an elevated position, the device comprising: (a) a housing; (b) a drive shaft mounted for rotation within the housing; (c) the drive shaft comprising at least one roller segment for receiving a portion of an elongated tape; 20 (d) at least one elongated tape attached to the roller segment within the housing such that at least a portion of the tape is free to extend from the housing for attachment to a banner or other visual display; and (e) a drive mechanism for driving the rotation of the drive shaft whereby to extend or retract a portion of the tape from or into the housing and 25 thereby raise or lower a banner or other visual display hanging therefrom. In use a banner may be hung from the suspension device by attachment of the banner to one or more of the elongated tapes. The attachment may be direct or indirect. Direct attachment may occur, for example, by tying the tape to the banner. Indirect attachment may occur, for example, by mounting a clip on the elongated 30 tape. The clip further includes a fastener for releasably fastening the clip to an elongated tape and to the banner and thereby fasten a banner to the elongated tape. Another example of indirect attachment may be to mount the banner on a support rail which is in turn fastened to the tape.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 3 The point at which at which the clip is fastened to the elongated tape may be adjusted. This feature is for example useful when the suspension device is mounted on a sloping surface such as a 'barn style' roof. The housing may have a circular, square or recantgular cross section. The housing 5 preferably comprises an elongated channel. The housing may comprise a number of separate components that may be assembled together. The housing components may be manufactured to snap fit with each other. Alternatively the components may be assembled together by the use of fasteners. The housing may further include a cover. The cover may take any suitable form. 10 The cover may be co-operable with the elongated channel to form a substantially enclosed space suitable for housing the drive shaft. The housing may be adapted for location in an elevated position by incorporating one or more housing locaters. A housing locater according to the invention may take any suitable form. Each 15 housing locater may be integral with the elongated channel or cover. One or more housing locaters may be provided on a flange or may project from the channel or the cover. Other suitable forms of housing locaters may also be used in accordance with the present invention. A housing locater may comprise an aperture for receiving a bolt, screw, nail or 20 other fastener. Such an aperture may be formed in the channel or cover, on a flange or projection from the channel or cover or elsewhere on the housing. In use, a housing according to the present invention may be located in an elevated position by passing a fastener through the housing locater aperture and fastening the fastener to a support such as a wall, ceiling, roof or other elevated point whereby to 25 locate the housing. A fastener such as a hook, peg or clip maybe fastened in position on the support prior to the housing being located in position on the fastener via one or more housing locaters. In one preferred configuration according to the invention the cover is an 30 elongated member of a length substantially corresponding to the length of the housing. In this configuration, the cover acts as a closure for the mouth of an elongated channel. In use, the cover may act as the housing locater and may be attached to the support by a combination of screws, hooks, clips or other fasteners. Typically the cover includes a WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 4 flanged portion which extends laterally from the channel. Such lateral extension or flanged portion may act as a housing locater. The profile of the cover is preferably adapted to cooperate with a complementary portion of the channel. In a further preferred configuration, the profile of the cover 5 - includes two depending flanges which engage complementary portions on the housing. A housing according to the present invention may also include one or more end plates. An end plate may be arranged for attachment at one end of an elongated channel provided as part of a housing according to the invention. Preferably a pair of end plates is provided with one such end plate being located at one end of the elongated channel and 10 the other end plate at the other end. Each end plate is preferably of a shape which substantially corresponds to the profile of the channel with which it is to be associated. In a preferred arrangement, each end plate carries a series of apertures to facilitate attaching the end plate to an end of the channel by screws, rivets or other fasteners. In one embodiment of the invention each end plate is adapted to journal a 15 portion of a drive shaft for rotation within the housing. Preferably a housing according to the present invention includes a pair of spaced apart end-plates, a separate one of which is attached at either end of an elongated channel. It is to be appreciated that end plates according to the invention may be formed 20 integrally with the elongated channel or cover. However, it has been found preferable for economical manufacture and assembly for end plates to be provided separately for attachment to the elongated channel or other housing component. When attached at either end of a channel having a cover according to the invention the end plates serve to form a substantially enclosed space within the housing. 25 The housing may be slotted to allow the tapes to extend from within the housing. This may be achieved by the provision of one or more elongated slots, to allow one or more tapes to extend through each slot. Depending upon the intended orientation of the housing in use, the cover or the elongated channel may be slotted. In one alternative within the scope of the invention a 30 gap may exist between the elongated channel and the cover to act as an elongated slot according to the invention. To facilitate the location of the housing for use in an orientation with either the cover or the elongated channel facing downwardly the cover and the channel may both be slotted.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 5 In one alternative arrangement within the scope of the present invention a pair of end plates is located a separate one at either end of an elongated channel. The end plates substantially close the otherwise open ends of the channel. The end plates in this arrangement may each include a pair of lugs extending laterally of the channel. 5 The end plates according to the invention are preferably substantially planar. However each end plate may be substantially L-shaped. When an L-shaped end plate is attached at an end of an elongated channel one arm of the L may effectively close the end of the channel and the other arm preferably extends across the channel mouth. In this way the end plates may also cover a portion at either end of the channel 10 mouth. The remainder of the channel mouth may be left open or the housing may be provided with a cover to substantially enclose the housing by covering the remaining channel mouth. Where L-shaped end plates are provided, the laterally extending lugs may be formed integrally with one arm of the L, and preferably the arm which covers a portion of 15 the channel mouth. In this arrangement the laterally extending lugs may thus act as housing locaters in accordance with the present invention. In a further alternative arrangement, a complementary cover may be placed over each end plate to improve the overall aesthetic qualities of the suspension device. 1 20 The combination of features which may form varying housing arrangements according to the present invention provides the additional advantage of a housing capable of being mounted in a variety of configurations. For example the housing can be mounted directly on a wall or ceiling or other solid support or within the roof space of a suspended ceiling. 25 The housing may also be indirectly mounted on a wall or ceiling or other solid support. For example the housing may be indirectly mounted by the use of one or more lines. One end of a line may be fixed to the wall or ceiling and the other end to a portion of the housing. It has been found that wires, chains and ropes may all be used as lines in accordance with the present invention. 30 This particular method of mounting is useful for irregular surfaces. Indirect mounting also allows the housing to be used on a sloping 'barn style' roof. The housing may also be releasably attached to grid ceilings such as metal frame grid ceilings. As the name suggests, a grid ceiling is a suspended ceiling having a grid like WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 6 frame which creates a series of apertures typically filled in with ceiling panels or light fittings which rest on the frame to form the ceiling. When used in combination with grid ceilings, a housing according to the invention can be mounted on the grid frame. Preferably the housing locater sits on the frame 5 within an aperture in the grid frame. If required, that portion of the grid frame which carries the housing locater may be reinforced before mounting thereon a suspension device as provided by the present invention. If the housing is fitted with a cover and is mounted with the cover facing downwardly, the laterally extending flanged portion of the cover may act as the housing 10 locater to locate the housing by engagement of the flanged portion with the grid. In this arrangement the channel of the housing sits within the roof cavity. The cover may be slotted to facilitate extension and retraction of the tapes. The drive shaft may take any suitable form. The drive shaft may be journalled within the housing, so as to be capable of rotation within the housing along a fixed axis. 15 The drive shaft incorporates at least one roller segment for receiving an elongated tape. A portion of the tape may be attached to the roller segment so as to depend from the housing in use. The drive shaft provides the mechanism which allows the tape to be selectively extended from or retracted into the housing thereby lowering or raising any banner attached to the tapes. 20 The drive shaft may be journalled for rotation within the housing in any known manner. For example stub axles may project from either end of the drive shaft and be carried by the end plates or apertures therein. Other alternatives for mounting the drive shaft including the use of specialised brackets within the housing and the adoption of techniques used for hanging roller blinds may also be used in accordance with the 25 invention. The tapes may be rolled directly onto the roller segment as the drive shaft is rotated to retract the tapes. The roller segment may take any suitable form. The roller segment may be formed integrally with the drive shaft or may comprise a separate component mounted thereon. 30 The roller segment may have the same diameter as the drive shaft. The roller segment may have a different diameter to the drive shaft. In use the roller segment rotates with the rotation of the drive shaft to extend or retract a portion of the tape from or into the housing and thereby raise or lower an attached banner.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 7 In one preferred embodiment the drive shaft includes one or more roller segments of a greater diameter than the diameter of the drive shaft. According to this preferred embodiment, the roller segments facilitate the winding and unwinding of the tapes. Each roller segment may extend between a pair of spaced collars which act as 5 divisions to resist any overlapping of adjacent tapes on the drive shaft. The divisions may thus effectively divide the outer surface of the drive shaft into a series of spools. Each spool may be arranged for the winding and unwinding of a separate tape with the rotation of the drive shaft. In a further preferred embodiment, the roller segment may be in the form of a 10 separate component comprising a spool fitted onto the drive shaft. The spool may be fitted onto the drive shaft by any suitable means including by the use of complementary threaded portions on the spool and on the drive shaft. Another suitable means according to the present invention is for the spool to be fitted onto the drive shaft via a rack-and pinion gear configuration. The spool may be fitted to the drive shaft by the use of a 15 retaining screw. The retaining screw may be tightened to secure the spool to the drive shaft. In this arrangement the spool rotates with rotation of the drive shaft. In yet a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the roller segment in the form of a spool may be located within a casing. The casing may be used to further support the drive shaft within the housing. The casing may be a in the form of a frame 20 surrounding the spool. The casing may be fixed within the housing or may engage the housing wall with the casing remaining stationary during the rotation of the drive shaft. The casing may comprise a number of separate components. The roller segment may be a spool mounted within the casing. The spool and the components of the casing may be manufactured to snap fit with each other. Alternatively the components may be 25 assembled together by the use of fasteners or adhesives. The casing may also assist in guiding the winding and unwinding of a tape from the spool. The casing may therefore centralise the winding and unwinding of the tape relative to the spool. The casing may include a pair of guide rollers through which the tape extends from the housing. The guide rollers may reduce the incidence of any 30 pendulum motion in the tape at the spool during the raising of a banner or other visual display, which may adversely affect the accurate winding of the tape onto the spool. According to this preferred embodiment the casing aids in ensuring that the tape correctly winds on to the spool. In a further preferred configuration, the suspension device provided by the 35 invention includes a tape retainer. The retainer may take any suitable form. The retainer WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 8 may be in the form of a finger biased against the tape to slow movement of the tape as it is selectively wound or unwound. This preferred configuration may diminish the likelihood of the tape tangling. The retainer may be biased against the tape by spring facilitated tension. The retainer may be a spring tensioned retainer. Preferably the finger is 5 pivotably mounted within the housing so that the finger can pivot whereby one end of the finger maintains *pressure on the tape as the diameter of ihe roller segment plus tape increases and decreases as tape is wound onto or from the roller segment. The end of the finger may be fitted with a pressure surface past which the tape can pass, or a wheel which contacts the tape and rotates with movement of the tape. 10 The degree of pressure exerted on the tape by the finger may be arranged to slow unwanted rapid movement of the tape as may happen when no banner is attached to provide a load on the tape. A plurality of tape retainers or fingers may be provided when the suspension device includes a plurality of spools or multiple tapes. 15 One end of the tape is preferably attached to a portion of the roller segment. In use, the other end of the tape may be capable of releasably attaching to a portion of a banner. The tape may take any suitable form. It is also within the scope of this invention that the tape may be in the form of string, line, ribbon, thread, cord, wire, cable, band or similar resilient product that is capable of being wound when stored. It is also 20 appreciated that the tape may be doubled back on itself in part or even fully such that both ends may be attached to the roller segment. In such an arrangement it is actually the middle portion of the tape which extends farthest from the housing and may be attached to the banner. Such arrangements are also envisaged as being within the scope of the invention and references herein to a free end of a tape extending from the housing or 25 being attached to the banner etc. should be read as references to that portion of the tape which extends farthest from the housing. The tape may be made of any suitable material. Preferably the tape is a long narrow strip of a resilient material. The tape may be woven. The tape may be knitted. In one preferred arrangement the tape may be made of material that exhibits fire retardant 30 properties. It has been found that tapes used in the blind industry or in the shutter industry may be suitable for use in accordance with the present invention. The suspension device provided by the present invention may include a single elongated tape. Preferably the suspension device provided by the present invention includes at least, two elongated tapes. According to this preferred configuration multiple 35 tapes provide a further function. Each tape is preferably capable of supporting the weight WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 9 of the banner individually, however by utilising two or more tapes the suspension device has an additional redundancy in the event of tape failure and may therefore reduce the risks posed to the public from falling banners. Multiple tapes may allow for the appropriate maintenance to be carried before any safety concerns arise and may also be 5 useful in resisting twisting of a banner. Where multiple tapes are employed such tapes are preferably spaced apart and most preferably spaced across the upper edge of the banner to share the load of the banner substantially evenly. The weight of the banner dictates the number of individual tapes required, the number of tapes being proportional to the weight of the banner. The heavier the banner, 10 the more tapes are required to support the banner and preferably to maintain some redundancy. Preferably the tapes may be spaced equally along the edge of a banner. The tape may be attached to the banner by a clip. The clip may take any suitable form. The clip may include a fastener. The fastener may be a staple. In a further preferred configuration, a banner used in combination with the 15 suspension device may include at least one banner support rail. The banner support rail may take any suitable form. The banner support rail may be located along an edge of the banner. The banner support rail can provide a means of keeping the banner taut so that it is more clearly visible in its entirety. The support rail may also provide a more rigid area in which the tapes may attach to the banner. According to that configuration the 20 banner support rail may be located along the upper edge of the banner. A further support rail may be attached along the lower edge at the base of the banner if required to keep the banner taut. The need for a banner rail is largely dependant on the nature of banner including the banner size, weight and on the nature of the material used to construct the banner. 25 The banner support rail may take any suitable form. The banner support rail may be a rod of a length substantially corresponding to the width of a banner. The banner may be mounted on the support rail by any suitable clip. The clip may include a fastener. The fastener may be a staple, hook or peg. The banner may be mounted on the support rail by attaching a loop to the top of the banner. 30 According to a further preferred configuration, the top of the banner may be double backed upon itself to form a loop. To mount the banner, the banner support rail may be inserted through the loop. According to yet another preferred configuration, the banner may be mounted on the support rail by inserting an edge portion of the banner into the body of the support 35 rail. The edge portion may be formed for example by doubling over an edge of the WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 10 banner to form a thickened edge portion. According to this configuration, the support rail comprises a substantially C-shaped channel capable of receiving the edge portion. To mount the banner, the edge portion may be inserted into an end of the substantially C shaped channel and slid along the channel so that the loop is releasably retained within 5 the substantially C-shaped channel cavity. Preferably, a spline or rod may be inserted into a loop or other edge portion to further facilitate the retention of the edge portion and spline (or rod) within the substantially C-shaped channel. The remainder of the banner is free extending from the mouth of the substantially C-shaped channel. The banner and support rail may be fastened to the tape by an adjustable clip. 10 The clip may take any suitable form. The clip may include a tape fastener to receive a portion of the tape and a substantially C-shaped channel capable of receiving a portion of a banner support rail. The clip may also allow the banner to be mounted to the banner support rail by placing a portion of the banner within the substantially C-shaped channel and inserting the banner support rail into the substantially C-shaped channel thereby 15 releasably retaining the banner within the C-shaped channel. Preferably a series of internal screws provide the clip with the capacity to adjust the profile of the fastener and the substantially C-shaped channel and to better retain the tape and the banner rail. The drive mechanism drives the selective rotation of the drive shaft whereby to raise or lower the tapes and any banner attached thereto. The drive mechanism may be 20 manually operated. A manually operated drive mechanism may take any suitable form. In a preferred configuration, the manually operated drive mechanism comprises a manual gear winder. The drive mechanism may be operated by the manual application of a predetermined force sufficient to rotate the drive shaft. 25 Preferably the gear winder is calibrated with a predetermined gear ratio to assist an operator in applying the requisite force. The winder may further comprise a brake to inhibit the banner from dropping under its own weight and thereby to hold the banner at the position of the banner relative to the housing when the drive mechanism stops. The brake may take any suitable form. The brake may be integral with the drive mechanism. 30 The brake may be external of the drive mechanism. The brake may be activated by the load of the weight applied by the banner. Preferably the manual winder includes an end stop device to prevent the banner winder being reversed wound once the banner is released to its lowest point. In a further preferred embodiment the manual winder can include a further stop device which can be 35 used to set an upper banner position that is less then the maximum allowed by the WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 11 suspension device. The stop device can take any suitable form. The stop mechanism may be adjustable to provide an alternative upper banner position. A handle or pole may be used to operate the manual gear winder. The handle can take any suitable form. The handle is preferably of sufficient length to allow an operator 5 underneath the suspension device to reach the suspension device and operate the drive mechanism. The handle may comprise a series of telescoping and interlocking components that allow the length of the handle to be adjusted to cater for differing ceiling heights. This feature also allows the handle to be effectively shortened for ease of transport and storage. The handle may include a pivoted section which allows a portion 10 of the handle to be bent to create a cranked handle. The manual drive mechanism may include an engaging portion to engage a portion of the handle to facilitate the operation of the suspension device. Preferably the handle engagement can be facilitated by a combination of complementary female and male members. The female and male portions may take any suitable form. In one 15 preferred example, the male member may be a spigot extending from the suspension device and the female member a bell coupling at an end of the handle. In a further preferred example the female member may be a ring extending from the suspension device and the male member a hook at the end of the handle. The handle may include a portion specifically adapted to engage the rotating portion of a drill, via which a drill may 20 be securely coupled to the handle. The coupling of the drill to the handle therefore allows an operator to use the drill to rotate the handle thereby facilitating the operation of the suspension device. Preferably the coupling can be facilitated by a combination of complementary female and male members. The female and male members may take any suitable form. 25 Preferably the drive mechanism includes a motor. Preferably the motor is an electric motor. Preferably the motor is capable of operating under varying power supplies and voltage systems allowing the suspension device according to the invention to be used in a host of countries and regions. The motor may be a 24 Volt motor. A transformer may be used to allow a motor to be used under varying power supplies and voltage systems. 30 Alternatively, the motor may be powered by one or more batteries. In one preferred arrangement, the motor may be located within the housing. Preferably, the motor may be located centrally along the axis of the drive shaft. In a further preferred arrangement, the motor is located within a roller segment. According to this preferred embodiment, the suspension device may be of a compact and WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 12 space saving design. It has been found that some motors of the type used in shade blind industry may be suitable for use in accordance with the present invention. The motor may include at least one limit switch. The limit switch may be incorporated into the motor. The limit switch may take any suitable form. The limit 5 switch provides a mechanism that helps prohibit unwanted winding that may damage the banner, the tape or the motor. The limit switch allows an operator to set a predetermined banner lift position. According to a preferred configuration, the motor includes a pair of limit switches, which may be considered as an 'upper limit' and a 'lower limit' switch. The 'upper limit' 10 switch may take any suitable form. The 'upper limit' switch may be an adjustable micro switch. The 'upper limit' switch may be a fixed micro switch. The 'upper limit' switch may be an electronic switch activated by encoding an electronic pulse. The 'upper limit' switch facilitates the interruption of a power supply when the banner reaches a predetermined lift position. 15 The 'lower limit' switch may take any suitable form. The 'lower limit' switch may be an adjustable micro switch. The 'lower limit' switch may be a fixed micro switch. The 'lower limit' switch may be an electronic switch activated by encoding an electronic pulse. The lower limit switch may be programmed by an operator to interrupt a power supply when the banner reaches a predetermined drop position. The lower limit switch, may 20 prevent the banner from being reversed wound once the banner is released to its lowest point. The lower limit switch may prevent the banner from lowering or raising in reverse order. Preferably the motor may include one or more further upper limit or lower limit switches which may be activated if the complementary primary switch fails to operate. 25 According to a preferred configuration, the motor includes a safety brake to inhibit the banner from dropping under its own weight and to hold the banner at the position of the banner relative to the housing when the drive mechanism stops. The brake may take any suitable form. The brake may be a magnetic brake. The brake may be actuated if the power supply is unexpectedly interrupted. The brake, therefore may inhibit the banner 30 from unexpectedly falling. The brake therefore will retain the banner in a fixed position, or alternatively significantly reduce the force at which the banner may descend towards the floor. The motor may be operated by any suitable means. The automated actuator may be operated by a switch located on the housing. The switch may be actuated by any 35 suitable means. The switch may be actuated by a handle. The handle is of sufficient WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 13 length to allow an operator underneath the suspension device to reach the display device and operate the actuator. According to one preferred configuration, the motor may be operated remotely. According to this preferred configuration, a receiver is located on the housing, the 5 receiver being capable of receiving signals from a remote control. The remote control can be used by an operator standing on the floor to operate that suspension device as required. The remote control may also include the capacity to set and calibrate one or more limit switches. According to a further preferred configuration a suspension device may include 10 both a motor and a manual drive mechanism. That preferred configuration may be operated in instances where an electric power supply is not available to drive the motor. It has been found in one particular arrangement that several banners can be located on adjacent suspension devices but raised and lowered simultaneously using a single drive mechanism. This can be achieved by aligning the housing for each device and 15 by elongating the drive shaft through the end plates of adjacent housings. In this arrangement only one of the suspension devices need incorporate a drive mechanism. The adjacent devices may thus have drive shafts driven by a central drive mechanism located in only one of the aligned housings. The invention therefore provides in one embodiment a banner hanging assembly 20 for simultaneously raising and lowering a plurality of banners or other visual displays from an elevated position comprising: (a) a plurality of suspension devices; (b) a plurality of banners or other visual displays; and (c) a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism having an elongated drive shaft 25 extending through each of the suspension devices wherein the activation of the drive mechanism results in the simultaneous raising and lowering of a plurality of banners or other visual displays. Preferably the drive mechanism is located within at least one suspension device. In some instances, depending on the weight of a banner, it may be necessary to 30 utilise more than one suspension device, or alternatively use more than one drive mechanism within the suspension device. These combinations are envisaged within the scope of the invention.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 14 For example, in a further arrangement a series of adjacent suspension devices can be used to lift a single banner or other visual display. This arrangement may be used to lift a heavier or wider banner or other visual display. The weight and width of the banner other visual display dictates the number of individual suspension devices, the number of 5 devices being proportional to the weight of the banner or other visual display. The heavier or wider the banner or other visual display, the more suspension devices required to support the banner other visual display and to maintain some form of redundancy in the event of tape failure. Preferably the devices may be spaced equally along the edge of a banner or other visual display 10 According to one arrangement a series of adjacent suspension devices can be used to lift a single banner or other visual display. This can be achieved by synchronising the winding and unwinding of the tape or tapes extending from each independent suspension device. Preferably a single remote control can activate each of the suspension devices to selectively lower or raise a banner or other visual display. 15 According to an alternative arrangement a series of adjacent suspension devices and a single drive mechanism can be used to lift a single banner. This arrangement may be used to lift a larger or wider banner or other visual display. This can be achieved by aligning the housing for each device and by elongating the drive shaft through each of the adjacent housings. In this arrangement only one of the suspension devices need 20 incorporate a drive mechanism. The adjacent devices may thus have drive shafts driven by a central drive mechanism located in only one of the aligned housings. Alternatively a drive mechanism may be located separately from each housing with an elongated drive shaft extending through each of the adjacent housings. According to this arrangement the drive mechanism can be interchanged to provide a more powerful 25 drive mechanism or in the case of a motor, a motor which complies to a particular power supply or voltage system. Arrangements incorporating a series of adjacent suspension devices can also be used to mount a single banner or other visual display from a sloping surface such as a 'barn style' roof. The length of tape extending from each suspension device can be 30 individually adjusted so that the banner or other visual display may be maintained in a level position relative to the floor. That adjustment may be made to the actual length of the tape, selectively actuating an individual suspension device or altering the setting of an individual limit switch to set a predetermined lift position. Arrangements incorporating a series of adjacent suspension devices can also be 35 used to mount a banner or other visual display under anr irregular surface.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 15 The invention therefore provides in one embodiment a banner hanging assembly for simultaneously raising and lowering a single banner from an elevated position comprising: (a) a plurality of suspension devices; 5 (b) a banner; and (c) a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism having an elongated drive shaft extending through each of the suspension devices wherein the activation of the drive mechanism results in the simultaneous raising and lowering of the banner. 10 Preferably the drive mechanism is located within at least one suspension device. Description of the drawings The invention will now be further explained and illustrated by reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a suspension device in use according to one form of the 15 invention; Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of the suspension device of Figure 1; Figure 3 is an exploded view of a housing being part of a suspension device according to one form of the invention; Figure 4 is an exploded view of a housing being part of a suspension device according to 20 further form of the invention; Figure 5 is an exploded view of a housing being part of a suspension device according to further form of the invention; Figure 6 is a schematic representation of the manual drive mechanism of a suspension device in use according to a further form of the invention; 25 Figure 7 is perspective view of a clip which may be used to indirectly attach a banner to a suspension device according to one form of the invention; Figure 8 is a schematic 'exploded view of a suspension division according to one form of the invention; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a banner hanging assembly incorporating a suspension 30 device according to one form of the invention; and.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 16 Figure 10 is a perspective view of the suspension device of figure 1 in use indirectly mounted to a 'barn style' roof. As shown in the drawings the invention provides a suspension device 1 for 5 hanging a banner 2 (or other visual display) from an elevated position. The suspension device includes a housing 3, a drive shaft 4 having a roller segment 4a, and a drive mechanism. As shown in Figure 2 the drive shaft 4 and roller segment 4a are mounted for rotation within the housing 3. When in use, at least one elongated tape 5 has one end 10 attached to the roller segment 4a and the other end free to extend from the housing 3 for attachment to a banner 2. A drive mechanism drives the rotation of the drive shaft 4 and roller segment 4a whereby to extend or retract the or each tape 5 from or into the housing 3 and thereby raise or lower a banner 2 hanging therefrom. 15 As shown in Figure 1, in use a banner 2 may be hung from the suspension device 1 by attachment of the banner 2 to one or more of the elongated tapes 5. The attachment may be direct or indirect. Figure 1 illustrates one preferred example of indirect attachment being the mounting of the banner 2 on a banner support rail 20. The housing 3 may take any suitable form. The example illustrated -in 20 accompanying figures is of a housing 3 with a rectangular cross section, comprising an elongated channel 10. As shown most clearly in Figures 4 and 5 as preferred embodiments, the housing 3 may further include a cover 11, the cover 11 being co-operable with the elongated channel 10 to form a substantially enclosed space suitable for housing the drive shaft 4 25 and roller segment 4a. The housing 3 also includes one or more housing locaters. The housing locater comprises an aperture for receiving a bolt, screw, nail or other fastener. The housing locater aperture may be formed in the channel 10 or cover 11, on a flange 12 or by projecting from the channel 10 or cover 11 or elsewhere on the housing 3. In use, the housing 3 may be located in an elevated position by passing a fastener 30 through the housing locater aperture and fastening the fastener to a support such as a wall, ceiling, roof or other elevated point whereby to locate the housing 3. A fastener such as a hook, peg or clip is fastened in position on the support prior to the housing 3 being located in position on the fastener via one or more housing locaters.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 17 Shown as a preferred embodiment in Figures 4 and 5 the cover 11 is an elongated member of a length substantially corresponding to the length of the channel 10. The cover 11 acts as a closure for the mouth of the channel 10. In use, the cover 11 acts as the housing locater and is attached to the support by a combination of screws, hooks, clips or 5 other fasteners (not shown). The cover 11 includes a flanged portion 12 which extends laterally from the channel 10. Such lateral extension or flanged portion 12 acts as a housing locater. As shown in Figure 2 the profile of the cover 11 is adapted to cooperate with a complementary portion of the channel 10. The profile of the cover 11 includes two 10 depending flanges 13 and 14 which engage complementary portions on the channel 13a and 14a. The housing also includes a pair of end plates 15 and 16 which are arranged for attachment at one end of the channel 10. An end plate 15 is located at one end of the channel 10 and the other end plate 16 at the other end. The endplate 15 and 16 15 illustrated in Figures 4 and 5 is of a shape which substantially corresponds to the profile of the channel 10 with which it is to be associated. Each end plate 15 and 16 carries a series of apertures 40 to facilitate the attaching of the end plate 15 and 16 to an end of the channel 10 by screws, rivets or other fasteners (not shown). Each end plate 15 and 16 is also adapted to allow the drive shaft 4 to 20 extend beyond the housing 3 and into an adjacent housing 3. Consequently several banners 2 can be located on adjacent suspension devices 1 but raised and lowered simultaneously using a single drive mechanism. This can be achieved by aligning the housing 3 for each suspension device 1 and by elongating the drive shaft 4 through the end plates 15 and 16 of adjacent housings 3. In this arrangement only one of the 25 suspension devices 1 need incorporate a drive mechanism. The adjacent devices 1 may thus have drive shafts 4 driven by a central drive mechanism located in only one of the aligned housings 3. That feature is represented as an aperture 50 and 51. A complementary cover 15a and 16a may be placed over each end plate 15 and 16 to improve the overall aesthetic qualities of the suspension device 1. 30 When attached at either end of a channel 10 having a cover 11 the end plates 15 and 16 serve to form a substantially enclosed space within the housing 3. As shown in Figure 1 the housing 3 is slotted to allow the tapes to extend from within the housing by the provision of an elongated slot 60.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 18 According to a further preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 3 a pair of L shaped end plates 15 and 16 are located on either end of the channel 10. The L-shaped end plates 15 and 16 substantially close the otherwise open ends of the channel 10. The end plates 15 and 16 in this example each include a pair of lugs 52 and 53 extending 5 laterally of the channel 10. When the L-shaped end plate is attached at an end of a channel 10 one 'arm' 54 of the L shaped end plate effectively closes the end of the channel 10 and the other 'arm' 55 Extends across the channel mouth. In this way the end plates 15 and 16 also cover a portion at either end of the channel mouth 56. The remainder of the channel ,mouth 56 may be left open or the 10 housing 2 may be provided with a cover to substantially enclose the housing by covering the remaining channel mouth. Figures 3 to 5 illustrate various preferred combinations of features considered part of the invention which may form varying housing arrangements. This interchangeability provides the additional advantage of a suspension device capable of being mounted in a 15 variety of configurations. For example the suspension device 1 can be mounted directly on a wall or ceiling or other solid support or within the roof space of a suspended ceiling. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate example of the type of housing 3 that may be used as part of a direct mounted suspension device 1. Figure 4 and 5, illustrate examples of the type of housing 3 that may be releasably 20 attached to grid ceilings such as metal frame grid ceilings by being mounted on a grid frame. The flanged portions 12 will sit on the frame within a grid ceiling aperture. If required that portion of the grid frame which carries the flanged portion 12 may be reinforced before mounting the suspension device 1. As shown in Figure 5, the housing 2 25 when fitted with a cover 11 can be mounted with the cover facing downwardly, the laterally extending flanged portion 12 of the cover 11 acts as the housing locater to locate the housing 3 by engagement of the flanged portion 12 with the grid. In this arrangement the channel 10 of the housing 3 sits within the roof cavity. The cover 11 is slotted to facilitate extension and retraction of the tapes 5. 30 The drive shaft 4 is joumrnalled within the housing 3, so as to be capable of rotation within the housing 3 along a fixed axis. A portion of the tape 5 is attached to the roller segment 4a so as to extend from the housing 3. The drive shaft 4 provides the mechanism which allows the tape 5 to be selectively extended from or retracted into the housing 3 thereby lowering or raising any banner 2 attached to the tapes 5.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 19 The drive shaft 4 may be journalled for rotation within the housing in any known manner. As shown in Figure 8 for example, stub axles 60 project from either end of the drive shaft 4. The stub axles 60 may be carried by the end plates 15 and 16 on apertures therein. Other alternatives for mounting the drive shaft include the use of specialised 5 brackets within the housing 3. The adoption of techniques used for hanging roller blinds may also be used in accordance with the invention. Figure 8 illustrates an example of a bracket 61 having an aperture 62 which carries a stub axles 60. The tapes 5 are rolled directly onto the roller segment 4a as the drive shaft 4a is rotated to retract the tapes 5. As is shown in Figure 8 the drive shaft 4 includes one or 10 more roller segments 4a. The roller segments 4a resist any overlapping of adjacent tapes on the drive shaft 4 and generally aid in the winding and unwinding of the tape 5. The roller segments 4a effectively divide the outer surface of the drive shaft 4 into one or more spools that may be arranged for the winding and unwinding of a separate tape 5 with the rotation of the drive shaft 4. 15 If necessary, the roller segment 4a may be located within a casing 70 as illustrated in Figure 8. The casing 70 may be used to further support the drive shaft 4 within the housing 3. As shown in Figure 8 the casing 70 may comprise a number of separate components. The casing 70 is fixed within the housing 3, and remains stationary during the rotation of the drive shaft 4. 20 The casing includes a pair of guide rollers 70 a through which the tape 5 extends from the housing 3. The guide rollers 70 a may reduce the incidence of any pendulum motion in the tape at the spool during the raising of a banner 2 or other visual display, which may adversely affect the accurate winding of the tape onto the spool. The suspension device further includes a tape retainer 100 in the form of a finger 25 101 biased against the tape 5 to hold the tape 5 in place as it is selectively wound or unwound. The tape retainer 100 diminishes the likelihood of the tape 5 tangling. The retainer is biased against the tape by spring facilitated tension. The finger 101 is pivotably mounted within the housing so that the finger 101 can pivot so that the end of finger 101 maintains pressure on the tape 5 as the diameter of the roller segment 4a plus tape 30 increases and decreases as tape is wound onto or from the roller segment 4a. The end of the finger 101 is fitted with a wheel 102 which contacts the tape 5 and rotates with movement of the tape 5. The degree of pressure exerted on the tape 5 by finger 101 may be arranged to slow unwanted rapid movement of the tape 5 as may happen when no banner is attached 35 to provide a load on the tape 5.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 20 A plurality of tape retainers 100 may be provided when the suspension device includes a plurality of spools or multiple tapes 5. One end of the tape 5 is attached to a portion of the roller segment 4 a. In use, the other end of the tape 5 may be capable of releasably attaching to a portion of a suspended 5 banner 2. As shown in Figure 1 the suspension device 1 preferably includes multiple tapes 5. The multiple tapes 5 provide a further function. Each tape 5 is capable of supporting the weight of banner 2 individually, however by utilising two or more tapes 5 the suspension device 1 has an additional redundancy in the event of tape failure and may therefore 10 reduce the risks posed to the public from falling banners. Multiple tapes 5 may allow for the appropriate maintenance to be carried before any safety concerns arise. The weight of the banner 2 dictates the number of individual tapes 5 required, the number of tapes 5 being proportional to the weight of the banner 2. The heavier the banner 2, the more tapes 5 are required to support the banner 2 and preferably to 15 maintain some redundancy. The tapes 5 are spaced equally along the edge of a banner 2. 1 As is shown in figure 1, the banner 2 used in combination with the suspension device 1 includes a pair of banner support rails 20 located along an edge of the banner 2. The banner support rails 20 provides a means of keeping the banner taut so that it is more clearly visible in its entirety and also provides a more rigid area on which the tapes 5 20 may attach to the banner 2. Figure 7 illustrates a clip 300 which may be used to fasten a banner 2 (and support rail 20) to the elongated tape 5. The clip 300 includes an adjustable fastener 301 which receives a portion of the tape 5 and also includes a C-shaped channel 302 which is capable of receiving a portion of a banner support rail 20, or of a banner 2 and banner 25 support rail 20. Internal screws 303 can be tightened as required to change the profile of the fastener 301 and C-shaped channel 302 to ensure that attachment between the tape and the banner as provided by the clip is more secure. The drive mechanism drives the selective rotation of the drive shaft 4a whereby to raise or lower the tapes 5 and any banner 2 attached thereto. The drive mechanism may 30 be manually operated. Figure 6 shows a schematic example of a manually operated drive mechanism comprising a manual gear winder 4b which is operated by the manual application of a predetermined force sufficient to rotate the drive shaft 4. The manual gear winder is calibrated with a predetermined gear ratio to assist an operator in applying the requisite WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 21 force. The manual gear winder further comprise a brake 1003 to inhibit the banner 2 from dropping under its own weight. The manual winder includes an end stop device 1002 to prevent the banner winder being reversed wound once the banner is released to its lowest point. A further 5 stop device is used to set an upper banner position that is less then the maximum allowed by.the suspension device. As is shown in Figure 6, a handle 200 is used to operate the manual gear winder. The handle 200 is of sufficient length to allow an operator below the suspension device 1 to reach the suspension device 1 and operate the drive mechanism. The handle includes 10 a pivoted section 201 which allows a portion of the handle to be bent to create a cranked handle. The manual drive mechanism includes an engaging portion to engage a portion of the handle 200 to facilitate the operation of the suspension device 1. The engagement is facilitated by a combination of complementary female 202 and male 203 members. The 15 member 203 is depicted as a spigot extending from the suspension device and the female portion 202 as a bell coupling at an end of the handle 200. Other arrangements including, for example, mounting the male member on the handle and the female member on the suspension device are also envisaged in accordance with the present invention. 20 That embodiment of the invention also includes a drive mechanism in the form of an electric motor 906. The motor is located within the housing 3 and in order to provide a suspension device of a more compact and space saving design, the motor is mounted within drive shaft 4. The motor is similar to the type used in shade blind industry. The motor includes a pair of limit switches 902, which may be considered as an 25 'upper limit' and a 'lower limit' switch. The 'upper limit' switch is a micro switch that facilitates the interruption of a power supply when the banner 5 reaches a predetermined lift position. The 'lower limit' is an electronic switch. The lower limit switch is programmed by an operator to interrupt a power supply when the banner reaches a predetermined drop 30 position. The lower limit switch may prevent the banner 2 from being reverse wound once the banner 5 is released to its lowest point. The lower limit switch may prevent the banner 2 from lowering or raising in reverse order. The motor 906 also includes a further upper limit or lower limit switches 902 which may be activated if the primary switch fails to operate.

WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 22 The motor further includes a safety brake 903 which is actuated, if the power supply is unexpectedly interrupted. The brake, therefore inhibits the banner from unexpectedly falling. The brake therefore will retain the banner in a fixed position, or alternatively significantly reduce the force at which the banner may descend towards the 5 floor. The motor used as part of the suspension device 1 depicted in Figure 1 is operated by a switch located on the housing 3. The switch is actuated by a handle of sufficient length to allow an operator below the suspension device 1 to reach the display device and operate the actuator. 10 Alternatively the motor used as part of the suspension device may be operated remotely by adding a receiver on the housing, the receiver being capable of receiving signals from a remote control. The remote control can be used by an operator standing on the floor to operate that suspension device as required. The suspension device 1 of the invention can be used as part of a system which 15 allows several banners to be located on adjacent suspension devices 1 but raised and lowered simultaneously using a single drive mechanism. This can be achieved by aligning the housings 3 for each suspension device 1 and by elongating the drive shaft 4 through the end plates 15 and 16 of adjacent housings 3. Apertures 50, 51 in end plates 15, 16 may be used for this purpose. In this arrangement only one of the suspension devices 1 20 need incorporate a drive mechanism. The adjacent devices may thus have drive shafts 4 and roller segments 4a driven by a central drive mechanism located in one only of the aligned housings 3. Figure 9 shows a banner hanging assembly having a series of adjacent suspension devices 900 used to lift a single banner 2. This arrangement is used to lift heavier or 25 wider banners. The weight and width of the banner dictates the number of individual suspension devices 900, the number of devices being proportional to the weight and width of the banner 2. The heavier or wider the banner 2, the more devices 900 are required to support the banner 2 and preferably to maintain some redundancy. As is shown, the devices 900 are spaced equally along the edge of a banner. 30 The banner 2 can be lifted by synchronising the winding and unwinding of the tape or tapes extending from each independent suspension device 900. A single remote control can be used to activate each of the suspension devices to selectively lower or raise a banner 2. In the example depicted, a series of adjacent suspension devices 900 and a single drive mechanism in the form of a motor 906 is used to lift a single banner. This can WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 23 be achieved by aligning the housing 3 for each device 900 and by elongating the drive shaft 4 through each of the adjacent housings. The motor 906 is located separately from each housing 3 with an elongated drive shaft 904 extending through each of the adjacent housings 3. According to this 5 arrangement the motor 906 can be interchanged to provide a more powerful drive mechanism or a motor which complies to a particular power supply or voltage system. Figure 10 shows the suspension device 1 indirectly mounted to a 'barn style roof by the use of a line 1001. The word 'comprising' and forms of the word 'comprising' as used in this description 10 does not limit the invention claimed to exclude any variants or additions. Modifications and improvements to the invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and improvements are intended to be within the scope of this invention.

Claims (24)

1. A suspension device for hanging a banner or other visual display from an elevated position, the device comprising: (a) a housing; 5 (b) a drive shaft mounted for rotation within the housing, the drive shaft comprising at least one roller segment for receiving a portion of an elongated tape; (c) at least one elongated tape attached to the roller segment within the housing such that at least a portion of the tape is free to extend from the 10 housing for attachment to a banner or other visual display; and (d) a drive mechanism for driving the rotation of the drive shaft whereby to extend or retract a portion of the tape from or into the housing and thereby raise or lower a banner or other visual display hanging therefrom.

2. The suspension device according to Claim 1 which further includes a clip for 15 releasably fastening a banner or other visual display to the elongated tape.

3. The suspension device according to Claim 2 wherein the clip includes an adjustable fastener to receive a portion of the tape and also includes a substantially C-shaped channel which is capable of receiving a portion of a banner or other visual display. 20 4. The suspension device according to Claim 3 wherein the clip comprises a series of internal screws to provide the clip with the capacity to adjust the profile of the fastener and the substantially C-shaped channel.

5. The suspension device according to Claim 1 wherein the roller segment is of a greater diameter than the diameter of the drive shaft to facilitate the winding and 25 unwinding of the tape.

6. The suspension device according to Claim 1 wherein each roller segment extends between a pair of spaced collars to form a spool, the spool acting as a division to resist any overlapping of adjacent tapes on the drive shaft.

7. The suspension device according to Claim 6 wherein the spool is located within a 30 casing to further support the drive shaft within the housing.

8. The suspension device according to Claim 7 wherein the casing includes pair of guide rollers through which the tape extends from the housing. WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 25

9. The suspension device according to Claim 1 and further including a tape retainer.

10. The suspension device according to Claim 9 wherein the tape retainer comprises a finger biased against the tape to slow the movement of the tape as it is selectively wound or unwound. 5 11. The suspension device according to Claim 10 wherein the end of the finger is fitted with a pressure surface past which the tape can pass.

12. The suspension device according to Claim 10 wherein the end of the finger is fitted with a wheel which contacts the tape and rotates with the movement of the tape. 10 13. The suspension device according to Claim 1 wherein the drive mechanism comprises a manual gear winder operated by the manual application of a predetermined force stifficient to rotate the drive shaft.

14. The suspension device according to Claim 13 wherein the gear winder includes a brake to inhibit a banner from dropping under its own weight. 15 15. The suspension device according to Claim 14 wherein the gear winder includes an end stop device to prevent a banner being reversed wound once the banner is released to its lowest point.

16. The suspension device according to Claim 15 wherein the gear winder further includes a further stop device to set an upper banner position. 20 17. The suspension device according to Claim 1 wherein the drive mechanism comprises an electric motor located centrally along the axis of the drive shaft.

18. The suspension device according to Claim 17 wherein the motor is located within the roller segment.

20. The suspension device according to Claim 17 wherein the motor includes at least 25 one lower limit switch to facilitate the interruption of a power supply when the banner is released to its lowest point.

21. The suspension device according to Claim 17 wherein the motor includes at least one upper limit switch to facilitate the interruption of a power supply when the banner reaches a predetermined lift position. 30 22. The suspension device according to Claim 17 wherein the motor includes a safety brake to inhibit a banner from dropping under its own weight.

23. The suspension device according to Claim 17 wherein the motor is operated remotely. WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 26

24. A visual display assembly comprising: (a) a housing mounted in an elevated position; (b) a drive shaft mounted for rotation within the housing, the drive shaft comprising at least one roller segment for receiving a portion of an 5 elongated tape; (c) at least one elongated tape attached to the roller segment within the housing such that at least a portion of the tape is free to extend from the housing for attachment to a banner or other visual display; (d) a drive mechanism for driving the rotation of the drive shaft whereby to 10 extend or retract a portion of the tape from or into the housing and thereby raise or lower a banner or other visual display hanging therefrom; and (e) a banner or other visual display attached to the elongated tape and thereby suspended from an elevated position. 15 25. The visual display assembly according to Claim 24 wherein the banner or other visual display is attached to the elongated tape by a clip releasably fastening the banner or other visual display to the elongated tape.

26. A visual display assembly comprising: (a) a housing mounted in an elevated position; 20 (b) a drive shaft mounted for rotation within the housing, the drive shaft comprising at least one roller segment for receiving a portion of an elongated tape; (c) at least one elongated tape attached to the roller segment within the housing such that at least a portion of the tape is free to extend from the 25 housing for attachment to a banner or other visual display; (d) a drive mechanism for driving the rotation of the drive shaft whereby to extend or retract a portion of the tape from or into the housing and thereby raise or lower a banner or other visual display hanging therefrom; and 30 (e) 'a banner support rail attached to the elongated tape and thereby suspended from an elevated position. WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 27

27. The visual display assembly according to Claim 26 wherein the banner or other visual display is attached to the elongated tape by a clip releasably fastening the banner support rail to the elongated tape.

28. A method for hanging a banner or other visual display from an elevated position, 5 the method comprising the steps of: (a) mounting a suspension device according to claim 1 in an elevated position; (b) at least partially extending the tape from the housing; (c) releasably attaching the banner or other visual display to a portion of the tape; and 10 (d) at least partially retracting the tape into the housing thereby lifting the banner or other visual display.

29. A method for hanging a banner or other visual display from an elevated position, the method comprising the steps of: (a) mounting a suspension device according to claim 1 in an elevated position 15 (b) at least partially extending the tape from the housing; (c) releasably attaching a banner support rail to a portion of the tape; (d) attaching the banner or other visual display to the banner support rail; and (e) at least partially retracting the tape into the housing to lift the banner or other visual display. 20 30. A banner hanging assembly for simultaneously raising and lowering a plurality of banners from an elevated position comprising: (a) a plurality of suspension devices; (b) a plurality of banners or other visual display; and (c) a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism having an elongated drive shaft 25 extending through each of the suspension devices wherein the activation of the drive mechanism results in the simultaneous raising and lowering of a plurality of banners or other visual displays.

31. The banner hanging assembly according to claim 30 wherein the drive mechanism is located within at least one suspension device. 30 32. A banner hanging assembly for simultaneously raising and lowering a single banner from an elevated position comprising: WO 2005/096253 PCT/AU2005/000479 28 (a) a plurality of suspension devices; (b) a banner; and (c) a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism having an elongated drive shaft extending through each of the suspension devices 5 wherein the activation of the drive mechanism results in the simultaneous raising and lowering a banner.

33. The banner hanging assembly according to claim 32 wherein the drive mechanism is located within at least one suspension device.

34. A suspension device for hanging a banner or other visual display from an elevated 10 position, the device comprising: (a) a housing; (b) a drive shaft mounted for rotation within the housing, the drive shaft comprising at least one roller segment extending between a pair of spaced collars to form a spool, the spool acting as a division to resist any 15 overlapping of adjacent tapes on the drive shaft; (c) at least one elongated tape attached to the roller segment within the housing such that at least a portion of the tape is free to extend from the housing for attachment to a banner or other visual display, (d) a drive mechanism for driving the rotation of the drive shaft whereby to 20 extend or retract a portion of the tape from or into the housing and thereby raise or lower a banner or other visual display hanging therefrom; (e) a casing in which the spool is located, the casing having a pair of guide rollers through which the tape extends from the housing; (f) a clip for fastening a banner or other visual device to an elongated tape; 25 and (g) a tape retainer comprising a finger biased against the tape to slow the movement of the tape as it is selectively wound or unwound.