GB2515746A

GB2515746A - Poster display system

Info

Publication number: GB2515746A
Application number: GB1311766.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Andrew Gardner; Ian Watkins; Simon Melhuish; Christopher Blake; Peter Zahno
Original assignee: GALEBREAKER GROUP Ltd
Current assignee: GALEBREAKER GROUP Ltd
Priority date: 2013-07-01
Filing date: 2013-07-01
Publication date: 2015-01-07
Also published as: GB201311766D0

Abstract

A poster display system 100 comprises a poster holding member 110 for holding a poster 114, a fixing member 102 for fixing the system to a support structure, e.g. a wall 104, and an adjusting arrangement 106 for adjusting a vertical position of the poster holding member in order to raise or lower the poster. The adjusting arrangement preferably comprises at least one flexible connecting member, e.g. a sheet 108, rope, cable or strap, for connecting the poster holding member 110 to the fixing member 102, and a device, e.g. a spindle 106 wound by a crank or drill, for adjusting an effective length of the connecting member. A catch device 118 mounted to a lower poster support bar 116 cooperates with a hook 120 mounted to the support structure for releasably attaching a lower end of the poster 114 to the support structure. The catch device and hook are preferably hidden behind the poster (Figs. 5-6). A tensioning device (112A) is also disclosed for tensioning at least a portion of the poster (Figs. 7-8).

Description

Poster Display System The present invention relates to displaying posters and the like.

Large posters, banners and the like are commonly used for marketing, advertising or informational purposes. Such posters normally have size ranges of 3m x 1.5m, 2m x 3m, 4m x 3m, 6m x 3m, 3m x 3m & 12m x 3m. Bespoke sizes area may also be available, up to a maximum of 20m x 4m or so.

Typically, the posters are attached to a structure, such as a wall or building, by means of adhesives or ties. They are also often located high above ground level to increase visibility.

A problem associated with such large conventional posters is that they can be difficult to install and replace, particularly if they are to be installed at height. In many cases, it is desirable to regularly, e.g. on a weekly basis, replace posters to keep potential customers updated regarding current offers or events. There are known poster display systems that comprise a sheet of transparent material over a surface on which a poster can be placed that are intended to allow posters to be more easily replaced. However, these can cause difficulties when used in certain situations, such as high level locations.

Typically, a lifting device, such as an elevated work platform/cherry-picker, is used to place at least one worker to be in a suitable position to fix/unfix the poster. This can have cost and safety implications and in some cases a cherry picker or the like may not always be readily available when it is desired to install/change a poster. In some cases, removing conventional posters can also cause damage to the poster and/or the underlying structure.

Embodiments of the present invention are intended to address at least some of the abovementioned problems. Embodiments of the invention provide a poster display system that can allow a poster to be installed or replaced in a convenient manner, typically without requiring persons to be positioned above ground level.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided poster display system including or comprising: a poster holding member for, in use, holding a poster; a fixing member for, in use, fixing the system to a structure, and an adjusting arrangement for, in use, adjusting a vertical position of the poster holding member relative to the fixing member.

The poster holding member may comprise an elongate member including at least one formation for, in use, receiving an edge, or adjacent portion, of the poster. The poster holding member may have a width at least equal to a width of the poster. The poster holding member may include an elongate channel having an elongate opening, in use, an edge of the poster being fixed to the poster holding member through the elongate channel. In some embodiments, a stop member, e.g. an elongate member, may be attached to, or adjacent, the edge of the poster, the stop member being dimensioned so that it cannot be removed through the elongate opening.

The adjusting arrangement may comprise at least one connecting member formed of flexible material that directly or indirectly connects the poster holding member to the fixing member. The connecting member may comprise a sheet of flexible material. Alternatively, the connecting member may comprise at least one rope, cable, strap or the like. The adjusting arrangement may comprise a device for, in use, adjusting the effective length of the connecting member. The adjusting arrangement may be configured so that it can be controlled, in use, by a user at ground level. The adjusting arrangement may comprise a device for, in use, winding the at least one connecting member around a spindle member, thereby adjusting the vertical position of the poster holding member. The winding device may be powered by mains electricity, battery and/or solar energy. The winding device may be operated by means of a crank. The winding may be operated manually. In other embodiments a component of the adjusting arrangement may be configured to receive a motorised rotating device, such as a drill or cordless drill.

The system may comprise a housing configured to at least partially contain the adjusting arrangement and the connecting member. The fixing member may be attached to the housing. The housing may be elongate.

In some embodiments, the adjusting arrangement may be integrated with the fixing member. For example, the adjusting arrangement may include at least one pulley, with the fixing member fixing the at least one pulley to the structure.

The system may further include at least one catch device configured, in use, to (directly or indirectly) releaseably attach a lower end of the poster to a structure. The system may further include at least one structure-mounted member that, in use, cooperates with a said catch device. The catch device may be configured to, in use, automatically engage and/or disengage with a structure-mounted member when a portion of the poster is at a certain position relative to the structure-mounted member.

The catch device may be configured so that, in use, when the poster is in its display position, the catch device is at least partially obscured behind the poster (typically being located between a rear surface of the poster and the structure). The structure-mounted member may be mounted on the structure so that, in use, when the poster is in its display position, the structure-mounted member is at least partially obscured behind the poster.

In some embodiments, the catch device may include an upwardly projecting member. The structure-mounted member may include a receiving portion having a downward-facing opening, in use, the receiving portion receiving part of the catch device. The downward-facing opening may have a larger dimension than a corresponding dimension of the part of the catch device.

A said catch device may comprise a moveable member and the moveable member may be biased to a state where it contacts (or does not contact) the structure-mounted member.

The system may include a lower poster member comprising an elongate member that is attached, in use, to a lower end of the poster. The at least one catch device may be mounted on the elongate member.

A width of at least the poster holding member may be adjustable.

The system may further include at least one tensioning device for, in use, applying tension to a portion of the poster. A said tensioning device may include: a first component fixed to a component of the system (e.g. the lower poster member or the spindle member) or a structure; a second component that is, in use, attached to a portion of the poster, and an arrangement configured to apply tension so that a portion of the poster is held in tension between the first component and the second component.

The arrangement configured to apply tension may be adjustable by a user. For example, the first or the second component may (directly or indirectly) be mounted on an elongate threaded member.

The first component may be fixed to an end of the poster holding member or an end of the lower poster member. In some embodiments, a pair of said tensioning devices are provided, one at, or adjacent, each end of the poster holding member. In some embodiments, a pair of said tensioning devices are provided, one at, or adjacent, each end of the lower poster member.

The second component may be, in use, attached to the poster at at least two points.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit including a system substantially as described herein and at least one poster.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit including a system substantially as described herein, including at least one catch device and at least one structure-mounted member.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing, displaying and/or replacing a poster using a system substantially as described herein.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a catch device for a poster display system, the catch device configured, in use, to (directly or indirectly) releaseably attach a portion of a poster to a structure.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a catch device substantially as described herein.

According to an alternative aspect of the present invention there is provided a tensioning device for, in use, applying tension to a portion of a poster.

The tensioning device may include: a first component fixed to a component of a poster display system or a structure; a second component that is, in use, attached to a portion of the poster, and an arrangement configured to apply tension so that a portion of the poster is held in tension between the first component and the second component.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a tensioning device substantially as described herein.

Whilst the invention has been described above, it extends to any inventive combination of features set out above or in the following description.

Although illustrative embodiments of the invention are described in detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these precise embodiments. As such, many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art.

Furthermore, it is contemplated that a particular feature described either individually or as part of an embodiment can be combined with other individually described features, or parts of other embodiments, even if the other features and embodiments make no mention of the particular feature. Thus, the invention extends to such specific combinations not already described.

The invention may be performed in various ways, and, by way of example only, embodiments thereof will now be described, reference being made to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a drawing of a first example embodiment of the poster display system; Figure 2 is a drawing of a second example embodiment; Figure 3 is a drawing of a third example embodiment; Figure 4A is a detailed drawing of a first example catch member of the system; Figures 4B and 4C illustrate the first example catch member in use; Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a second example catch member in use; Figures 6A and 6B illustrate a third example catch member in use; Figure 7A is an exploded diagram of a first example poster tensioning device; Figure 7B shows the first example poster tensioning device in assembled form; Figure 7C illustrates the first example poster tensioning device in use; Figure 8A is an exploded diagram of a second example poster tensioning device, and Figure 8B illustrates the second example poster tensioning device in use.

Referring to Figure 1, a first example poster display system 100 is shown.

The system includes a pair of [-shaped brackets 102 that function as fixing members for fixing part of the system to a wall 104 by means of screws, nails or the like. It will be understood that at least one other type of fixing member (e.g. hooks, nails/screws without brackets) could be used instead of, or in addition to, the brackets for fixing the system to a structure. The structure could be a building, wall, or some other pre-existing structure. Further, it could be a purpose-built structure, such as a scaffold or billboard, for displaying a poster.

In some cases, the system may be connected to more than one separate structure, e.g. be used to display/hang a poster between two buildingslwalls, and the poster does not necessary have to be positioned in front of a surface of the structure. Further, the lower end of the poster may be connected to a different structure than the structure to which the upper end of the poster, or the system, is connected.

In the example, the brackets 102 and other components of the system can be formed of aluminium or steel, but it will be understood that other suitable materials, or mixture of materials, could be used. It will also be understood that the dimensions and design details of the various components can vary from the illustrated examples. Further, components shown as being formed of one piece in the examples may be formed of several pieces in other embodiments (and vice versa).

A cylindrical spindle member 106 has its ends rotatably mounted to the brackets 102. In some embodiments, the spindle member can have a width of 8.25m, suitable for a poster having a width of 8.129m. A connecting member 108, in the form of a sheet of flexible material, is shown partially wound around the spindle member. The sheet can be fixed to the spindle member by any suitable means, e.g. adhesive, kador or stitching, and may be formed of any suitable flexible and durable material, such as polyester or polyethylene. The sheet has a width slightly smaller than that of the spindle and a length of around 1.5m to 4m, and typically around 3.05m. The height/length of the poster would typically be up to 8m to enable lowering to the ground.

The free end (or adjacent portion) of the sheet is attached to a poster holding member 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the poster holding member comprises a cylindrical member having an upper elongate slot for receiving the sheet and a lower elongate slot that can receive an upper edge of a poster 114.

The poster 114 can be a sheet of paper or any other at least partially flexible (such as canvas, polypropylene, fabric, etc), or even rigid, material(s) and can include (e.g. printed) advertising/marketing/informational messages and/or images. It will typically be rectangular in shape and may conform to "standard" poster sizes, e.g. Al, A0, 4-sheet, 6-sheet, in the UK etc, but it will be understood that versions of the system 100 can be produced to accommodate different shapes or sizes of posters. In some cases, more than one (full or partial) poster may be supported/displayed by the system. In general, versions of the system can be produced with components that are dimensioned to generally correspond to the type of posters to be displayed. Typically, these components will comprise at least the poster holding member 110 and/or the lower poster member 116; the width of these components will generally correspond to the width of the edge of the poster to which they are intended to be attached. A range of poster display systems may be provided, each system in the range having dimensions suitable for a particular common poster size. In alternative embodiments, the dimensions of some of the system components may be adjustable, e.g. the poster members 110, 116 may be formed of slidable or telescopic parts that allow their effective widths to be modified.

In the example of Figure 1, the poster holding member 110 includes a pair of tensioning devices 112, one device located at each of its ends, which are used to help to keep the poster 114 taut, particularly portions at its upper edge.

A lower poster member 116 is also attached to the lower edge of the poster.

This can be similar in design to the poster holding member 110 and may also include at least one tensioning device; a pair 11 2A are fitted at opposite sides in the illustrated example.

An example of how the poster 114 may be attached to the lower poster member 116 can be seen in the sectional diagram of Figure 5A. The lower poster member includes an elongate channel 550 that runs along its upper surface. In the example, the channel is generally cylindrical, with the opening 552 being narrower than the main space 554 inside the channel. An elongate bar 556 may be attached to the lower edge (or adjacent portion) of the poster.

In use, the bar can be slid (horizontally) into the channel. The dimension of the elongate bar is greater than that of the opening, meaning that the poster cannot be removed (in a non-damaging manner) in a vertical direction. The lower poster member can also include a diametrically-opposed channel 558 that is a mirror image of the first channel. A strip of material 560 may be fitted inside a channel that is not intended to be used. The poster holding member 110 may have a similar design to this, with its lower channel being used to attach the upper edge of the poster to the system.

Returning to Figure 1, it can be seen that the lower poster member further includes a set of catch devices 118. In the example there are three catch devices: one fitted near each end of the lower poster member and a third at its centre; however, it will be understood that the number, positioning and design of the catch devices can vary.

In use, the spindle member 106 can be rotated, thereby winding or unwinding the sheet 108. The spindle member may be rotated in many different ways. For example, some embodiments may include a motor, e.g. fitted to one of the brackets 102, which may be activated remotely by a wired or wireless control unit (not shown). Such a motor may be powered by mains electricity supply or a battery, solar power or other energy source. In other embodiments, a crank (not shown) with an elongate handle, which allows it to be operated by a user on ground level 104A, may be used to rotate the spindle. The crank may be rotated manually, or in other embodiments its lower end may be configured to receive a motorised rotating device, such as a drill or cordless drill. It will also be understood that alternative ways of adjusting the vertical position of the poster and associated components can be provided, e.g. a Roman blind type arrangement where the connecting member is folded rather than wound to adjust its effective length/height. In some embodiments the system can include a housing at least partially containing the winding device and/or other components of the system. In some cases, the housing may be elongate and can accommodate the spindle member and the wound connecting member, thereby being easy to transport.

In a typical installation operation, a user rotates the spindle member 106 so that the poster holding member 110 is at a height accessible from ground level (or wherever the user is standing). He then attaches the poster 114 to the member by inserting the upper edge of the poster into the slot that runs along the lower surface of the holding member. He can then use the tensioning devices 112 to further secure the poster in a taut manner, as will be described below. The user can also attach the lower poster member 116 and associated tensioning devices 112A to the lower edgelportion of the poster in a similar manner. The user can then rotate the spindle member in the opposite direction to draw the holding member and the poster upwards until it is at the desired height. The catch devices 118 on the lower poster members can engage hook members 120 (as will be described below) that have been fixed to the wall 104, thereby further securing the poster in position. It will be understood that in some cases, the steps described herein may be performed in a different order, some may be omitted and/or additional steps may be performed.

Figure 2 shows an alternative embodiment 100' of the poster display system. Components of the embodiment that are generally similar to/correspond to those of the embodiment of Figure 1 have been given the same reference numerals. The main difference between the embodiment of Figure 2 compared to Figure 1 is that instead of a sheet 108 connecting the upper components (brackets 102, spindle member 106) to the poster holding member 110, a set of straps/cables/ropes 208 are wound around a set of pulleys 209, which are mounted on an elongate, e.g. cylindrical, member 206. If straps are used then these can be formed of any suitable flexible material, such as webbing. If cables are used then they can be formed of steel or the like. In the example, there are two pulleys/straps, each located about 20% -30% of the width of the elongate member from the corresponding end of the elongate member 206. However, it will be understood that the number, position and/or design of the pulleys can be varied. The pulleys may be rotated as the elongate member 206 is rotated (e.g. manually or by a motor, as discussed above), but in other cases the pulleys may be independently rotatable whilst the member 206 stays fixed. The system 100' can be operated in a similar manner to the embodiment of Figure 1 to adjust the height of the poster holding member 110.

This embodiment may typically be used where the length of the connecting member 108 is greater than 8m.

Figure 3 shows show another alternative embodiment 100" of the poster display system. Again, components of the embodiment that are generally similar to/correspond to those of the embodiment of Figure 1 have been given the same reference numerals. The main difference between the embodiment of Figure 3 and the ones described above is that the height adjusting arrangement used to control the vertical position of the poster holding member 110 comprises a cable system that includes a set of pulley wheels 302 that are directly fixed to the wall 102 (rather than the adjusting arrangement being fixed to a component of the system that is fixed to the structure). In the illustrated example there is a first pulley wheel 302A located above a winding device 304 including a spindle 306.

The winding device may be motorised, or may receive a crank that is operated manually or by means of a remote motor. The winding device may be remotely controlled using any suitable technology, e.g. infra-red or WiFi.

Two cables 308A, 308B are connected to the spindle 306. The first cable 308A passes over the pulley wheel 302A and then another pulley wheel 302B and is connected to the poster holding member 110, at a point about 20% -30% away from a first end of the member. The second cable 308B passes over the first two pulley wheels and a third pulley wheel 302C. It is connected to the poster holding member, at a point about 20% -30% away from its opposite end.

This embodiment can typically be used where the position of the drive unit 304 has to be remote from other components of the system.

As mentioned above, the poster display system can include at least one catch device 118, which can be fixed, directly or indirectly, to the lower poster member 116. In other embodiments the at least one catch device can be connected directly to the poster 114 (typically its lower edge, although it could be at a side), or to another component of the system to provide similar functionality.

Figure 4A details a first example of the catch device 118. For brevity, the design and operation of one catch device and one corresponding hook 120 only will be described. It will also be understood that embodiments of the catch device may be used in applications other than the poster display system described herein. The example catch device can include an elongate member 402 having brackets 404A, 404B fixed to its ends. In use, the elongate member may be fixed to the lower poster member 116, typically depending from its base.

Each of the brackets can be connected to a respective pivoting member 406A, 406B. In the example, the pivoting movement is provided by means of nuts/bolts passing through apertures in the brackets and pivoting members; however, it will be understood that other means are possible, e.g. hinge-type or foldable arrangements.

A bar 407 is fixed to, and extends between, the free ends of the pivoting members 406A, 406B. In other embodiments, there may be a different number, positioning and/or design of the pivoting member(s), brackets, bar and elongate member. In the illustrated example, the pivoting members 406A, 406B are biased into the engaging state shown in Figure 4B. This can be achieved by means of a bias spring 408 mounted on the bolt that connects one of the brackets 402A to the pivoting member 406A. A projecting portion 410 of the bias spring is in contact with the elongate member 402 and/or the lower poster member 116 so that in the absence of another force, the pivoting members are set at a non-parallel angle (e.g. around 120°) with respect to the brackets/vertical. It will be understood that alternative means for providing the bias may be used. In other embodiments, a moveable part of the catch device may be biased into a non-engaging state and movement of the catch device results in the moveable part engaging with the hook or other structure-mounted member. The bias is designed to allow the bar 407/pivoting members 406 to pivot when it comes into contact with an object, e.g. the hook 120, and then return to the engaging state when such contact is broken.

In use, the poster 114 and lower poster member 116 can be lowered by a user as described above, so that the bar 407 contacts the upper surface of the hook 120. The hook can be attached to the structure 104 by any suitable means, e.g. bolts, screws, etc. The illustrated example hook includes a curved upper edge/surface 420 that leads down to a projecting portion 422 that is separated from a main body portion 424 by a generally triangular gap 426. The projecting portion is generally vertical when the hook is fixed to the structure, and an adjacent edge of the main body portion is slanted and the surface 428 at which they meet is generally curved to correspond with the circular surface of the bar 407. It will, however, be appreciated that the design of the hook can vary and that any formation/component(s) that provides the same function could be used.

As the lower poster member 116 continues to descend in use, the bar 407 slides over the outer edge/surface 420 of the hook 120. After the bar passes the lower end of the projecting portion 422, contact with the hook is broken and the pivoting members 406 are biased into the engaging state shown in Figure 4B so that the bar is positioned in/below the gap 426 between the projecting portion and the main body portion 424. The user can then control the system so that the poster 114 and the lower poster member moves upwards. As the bar of the catch device is positioned within the gap 426 and as the lower poster member continues to ascend, it comes into contact with the surface 428 of the hook. The pivoting members can then move to the position shown in Figure 4C, with contact between the bar and the hook helping to keep the poster in position after the upwards movement has been ceased. Thus, the catch device can automatically engage with the hook and assist with holding the poster in its display position without requiring a user to manually engage the (or each) catch device.

In use, when the poster 114 is to be replaced, the user can lower the poster and the lower poster member 116 so that the bar 407 disengages from the hook 120 in a generally reverse manner to the operation described above.

The poster and connected components can then be positioned in a similar manner to that shown in Figure 4B, allowing the lower poster member to be removed from the poster. Again, the catch device(s) are designed so that they do not need to be manually disengaged for this operation.

Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an alternative embodiment of catch device 118'. This catch device includes bracket component 501 that is, in use, is connected to the lower poster member 116. The bracket component includes an upwardly projecting member 502 that, in use, is positioned behind a lower portion of the poster 114. A pivoting member 406 is pivotally connected to an upper end of this upward projection. The pivoting member is biased so that it is in an engaging state substantially perpendicular to the upward projection.

However, it will be understood that the exact angle and arrangement can vary.

Also, although the alternative catch device shown in Figures 5A and 5B has pivoting members and a bar similar to the embodiments of Figures 4A -4C, it will be appreciated that this is not necessarily the case. Further, the hook 120 does not necessarily need to be the same design as that of the other embodiment.

In use, the poster 114 and the lower poster member 116 is lowered as discussed above. Contact between the bar 407 and the hook 120 may cause the pivoting members 406 to pivot or be displaced laterally, but after such contact is broken the catch device 118' may be in the configuration shown in Figure 5A, with the bar positioned below the gap 426 of the hook. The user then controls the system so that the lower poster member is raised. The bar enters the slot and can eventually engage with the surface 428 of the hook. As the lower poster member continues to move upwards, the bar is held in place against this surface, but the pivoting connection with the projection 502 of the catch device means that the lower poster member can continue to be raised to the position shown in Figure 5B. Again, this catch mechanism can be engaged and disengaged automatically without the need for manual intervention. Further, in this embodiment several components of the catch device, including the pivoting members and the bar, as well as part of the hook, are positioned behind the lower portion of the poster, thereby obscuring them from general view when people are looking at the poster, providing an improved aesthetic effect.

Figures 6A and 6B show a further alternative embodiment of the catch device 118". This embodiment includes a similar bracket component 501 having an upwardly projecting member 502 as in the embodiment of Figures 5A -SC; however, it does not include a pivoting member and there is also a larger horizontal gap (shown by arrows 600), in use, between the rear surface of the poster 114 and the upward projection. The hook 120' used in conjunction with this catch device includes a slot 602 accessible from its base that is designed to receive the upward projection. A surface 601 of the hook proximate to the catch device is angled/slanted from the base 601A of the hook towards the slot, thereby helping guide the projection into the slot. Thus, the catch member includes a projection that, in use (when the catch device is being used to help hold the poster in its display position), is located behind the poster 116. At least part of the hook, including the receiving slot is also located behind the poster in this position.

In use, the poster 114 and the lower poster member 116 are lowered as described above. As the catch device 118" comes into contact with the hook 120', the outer surface of the catch device can simply slide over the outer surface of the hook without engagement, with the catch device and the lower poster member being displaced away from the hook. The slanted/angled outer surface 603 of the catch device below the upward projection 502, and the curved outer surface 605 near the top of the hook can help with this. After the tip of the upward projection has passed the base of the hook, gravity will cause the poster and the lower poster member to hang substantially vertically, allowing the upward projection to swing into position below the slot 602 in the base of the hook, as shown in Figure 6A.

The user can then operate the system so that the poster 114 and the lower poster member 116 are raised. The upward projection 502 of the catch device 118" will then fit into the slot 602 of the hook 120' (as shown in Figure 6B), engaging automatically without needing to be manually manipulated. When the catch device is to be released, the user lowers the poster and the lower poster member so that the catch device returns to the position shown in Figure 6A. The user can then swing the lower part of the poster away from the hook and raise the poster again until at least the tip of the upward projection 501 is above the base 601A of the hook. Alternatively, he may release the lower poster member from the poster before raising the poster.

It will be appreciated that many variations to the dimensions and design of the illustrated catch devices and hooks are possible whilst still providing similar functionality. For example, any suitable type of male or female member could be fitted to the poster or poster member, with a corresponding female or male member being fitted (directly or indirectly) to the structure 104. In some cases, a formation or part of the structure can be used instead of a customised hook. The catch device with a moving/pivoting member may be fitted to the structure rather than the poster or other part of the system. In general, the formation that receives a corresponding member on the other component will have a sufficiently large (or tapering) opening so that precise positioning is not required to affect engagement of the catch device.

Figures 7A -7C detail an example of how one of the tensioning devices 112A can be constructed. It will also be understood that embodiments of the tensioning device may be used in applications other than the poster display system described herein. The illustrated example is fitted to the right-hand end of the lower poster member 116; however, it will be understood that it could be modified and re-oriented to fit onto the left-hand end of the lower poster member (or any other desired component/position), or that a mirror-image version could be produced.

Referring to Figures 7A and 7B first, the example tensioning device 11 2A includes a generally disc-shaped cap component 702 that has two spaced-apart bores 704A, 704B near its top. Two bores are provided so that the tensioning device can be used at either the left or right hand ends of the lower poster member 116. During assembly, a bolt 706 is passed through one 704B of the bores, with the head of the bolt being positioned on the outer surface of the cap component.

A cylindrical rod 708 is fixed to, and extends perpendicularly from, a substantially central point on the inner surface of the cap component 702. The rod passes through a central bore of a first generally disc-shaped component 710. This first disc component is fixed to the rod, e.g. by means of welding, about 1 cm away from the inner surface of the cap component. The first disc component includes two diametrically-opposed circular cut outs: one 712A at its top and the second 712B at its bottom. A second generally disc-shaped component 710' is fixed to the rod about 1 cm away from its free end. The second disc component is substantially identical to the first and includes top 712A' and bottom 712B' circular cut outs.

At least pad of the bolt 706 is threaded and this allows a carriage member 714 having a cylindrical threaded interior surface to be adjustably mounted along the length of the both. The carriage member is fixed, e.g. by welding, to a central portion of an upstanding bracket component 716. A cylindrical member 719A is fixed to the lower end of this bracket component. The upstanding bracket component is attached, e.g. by means of a nut/bolt, to a first horizontal bracket component 718. This first horizontal bracket component extends away from the cap component 702 in a direction generally parallel to that of the lower poster member 116. It is flat and generally rectangular in shape, but one end is rounded. The first horizontal bracket component also includes a pair of bores 720A, 720B, spaced apart along its length. The example tensioning device 112A further includes a second horizontal bracket component 718' that is flat and generally rectangular. It includes a pair of bores 720A', 720B' that are located to correspond with the bores of the first horizontal bracket component.

Referring to Figure 7C, in use, the tensioning device 112A is fitted inside the right-hand end of the lower poster member 116, with its cap component 702 positioned outside the lower poster member. A portion of the rod 708, and the first 710 and second 710' disc components, can fit inside the (hollow) lower poster member. The cylindrical member 719A is also located inside the lower poster member, its end portions located within the upper cut aways 712A, 712A', with the upstanding bracket member 716 passing through the slot 700. The bolt 706 and components attached to that extend inboard, above the top of the lower poster member.

The lower edge of the poster 114 can fit inside the slot 700 running along the top of the lower poster member 116. The poster includes apertures, typically reinforced by eyelets or the like (not shown) positioned spaced apart adjacent its lower edge. These can be formed by the operators of the display system or another party. The apertures in the poster and intended to align with the apertures 720A, 720B, 720A', 720B' of the first 718 and the second 718' horizontal bracket components.

As shown in Figure 7C, the first horizontal bracket member 718 is positioned behind the rear surface of the poster 114. Rotation of the bolt 706 by a user means that position of the carriage member 714 and the components attached to it relative to the poster can be adjusted. Thus, the bores in the bracket member can be bought into general alignment with the apertures in the poster so that a pair of bolts 724 can be passed through them. The bores of the second horizontal bracket member can then be fitted onto the bolts so that the second bracket member is fitted onto the front surface of the poster. A pair of nuts 726 can be used to tighten and fix the poster between the first and the second bracket members.

Fixing the bracket members 718, 718' to the poster 114 in this way help keep it more tight/smooth than it would be without the tensioning device keeping it taut and pulling on its the side edges. Further tensioning can be provided after the bracket members have been fitted to the poster by adjusting their horizontal position by means of rotating the bolt 706. A similar tensioning device (fitted to the opposite end of the lower poster member 116) can apply tension to a portion of the opposite side of the poster. Further, the tensioning devices 112 (fixed to ends of the poster holding member 110 in a similar manner) can apply tension to upper portions of the poster. These will typically be attached to the poster whilst the holding member has been positioned at, or near, ground level.

Figures 8A and 8B show an alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 112A'. This version includes fewer components that the one of Figures 7A -7C. The tensioning device 112' includes a cap component 802 that is generally circular, but includes a peaked portion at its top. There is a bore 804 in the peaked portion. An at least partially threaded bolt 806 can be fitted through this bore. A carriage member 814 can be threaded onto this bolt. A cylindrical rod 808 is fixed to, and extends perpendicularly from, a substantially central point on the inner surface of the cap component.

A first bracket 818 of the tensioning device 112A' includes a generally square-shaped portion 819 and a dog-leg extension portion 819B at a bottom corner of the square that is fixed, e.g. by welding, to the carriage member 814.

A lower end of the extension portion is fixed to a cylindrical member 81 9A. The square portion of the bracket includes four bores 820A -820D, arranged in a 2 x 2 matrix formation adjacent its four corners. The embodiment further includes a second bracket member 818' that has a shape generally corresponding to the square portion of the first bracket and four bores 820A' -820D that are designed to be aligned with the four bores of the first bracket in use.

As shown in Figure 8B, the cap component 802 is fitted onto an end of the lower poster member 116 (or the poster holding member 110), with the rod 808 and the cylindrical member 819A being located inside the hollow interior of that member. The extension portion 819 passes through the elongate slot 700.

The first bracket component 818 can then be fitted to the poster 114 in a similar manner to that described above, and four bolts 824 are passed through the aligned bores/apertures in the bracket member/poster. The bores 820A' -820D' of the second bracket member 818' can then be fitted onto the free end of the bolts and a set of four nuts 826 can be used to secure the brackets onto the poster. The bolt 802 can then be used to tighten the adjacent portion of the poster as desired.

It will be appreciated that many variations to the example tensioning devices 112A, 112A' are possible. For example, they could be attached to frame members extending between/connected to the poster holding member hOllower poster member 116, or even to other components connected to the poster display system, or the structure 104. This could allow them to tension portions of the poster other than its upper/lower corners. The tensioning may be provided by means other than threaded components, e.g. an adjustable biasing device such as a spring. Further, means other than bolts, e.g. pins, removable rivets, could be used to secure the tensioning device to the poster. The number, positioning and arrangement of the bolts/connecting devices shown are also exemplary only.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A poster display system (100) including or comprising: a poster holding member (100) for, in use, holding a poster (114); a fixing member (102, 302) for, in use, fixing the system to a structure (104), and an adjusting arrangement (108, 208, 209, 302, 306, 308) for, in use, adjusting a vertical position of the poster holding member relative to the fixing member.
2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the poster holding member comprises an elongate member (100) including at least one formation for, in use, receiving an edge, or adjacent portion, of the poster (114).
3. A system according to claim 2, wherein the poster holding member (110) has a width at least equal to a width of the poster (114).
4. A system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the poster holding member (110) includes a channel (550) having an elongate opening (552), in use, an edge of the poster (114) being fixed to the poster holding member through the elongate channel.
5. A system according to claim 5, wherein a stop member (560) is attached to, or adjacent, the edge of the poster (114), the stop member being dimensioned so that it cannot be removed through the elongate opening (552).
6. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjusting arrangement comprises at least one connecting member (108, 208, 308) formed of flexible material that directly or indirectly connects the poster holding member (110) to the fixing member (102, 302).
7. A system according to claim 6, wherein the connecting member comprises a sheet (108) of flexible material.
8. A system according to claim 6, wherein the connecting member comprises at least one rope, cable (308) or strap (208).
9. A system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the adjusting arrangement comprises a device (304) for, in use, adjusting an effective length of the connecting member (108, 208, 308).
10. A system according to claim 9, wherein the adjusting arrangement is configured so that it can be controlled, in use, by a user at ground level (104A).
11. A system according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the adjusting arrangement comprises a device (304) for, in use, winding the at least one connecting member (108) around a spindle member (106), thereby adjusting the vertical position of the poster holding member (110).
12. A system according to claim 11, wherein the winding device (304) is operated by means of a crank.
13. A system according to claim 12, wherein a component of the winding device (304) is configured to receive a motorised rotating device, such as a drill or cordless drill.
14. A system according to claim 6, further including a housing configured to at least partially contain the adjusting arrangement (106) and the connecting member (108).
15. A system according to claim 14, wherein the housing is elongate.
16. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjusting arrangement (302) is integrated with the fixing member (302).
17. A system according to claim 16, wherein the adjusting arrangement includes at least one pulley (302), with the fixing member fixing the at least one pulley to the structure (104).
18. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including at least one catch device (118, 118', 118") configured, in use, to releaseably attach a lower end of the poster (114) to a structure.
19. A system according to claim 18, further including at least one structure-mounted member (120, 120') that, in use, cooperates with a said catch device (118).
20. A system according to claim 19, wherein the catch device (118) is configured to, in use, automatically engage with and/or disengage from a said structure-mounted member (120) when a portion of the poster (114) is at a certain position relative to the structure-mounted member.
21. A system according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the catch device (118) is configured so that, in use, when the poster (114) is in its display position, the catch device is at least partially obscured behind the poster.
22. A system according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the structure-mounted member (120, 120') is mounted on the structure (104) so that, in use, when the poster (114) is in its display position, the structure-mounted member is at least partially obscured behind the poster.
23. A system according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the catch device (118') includes an upwardly projecting member (502).
24. A system according to claim 23, wherein the structure-mounted member (120') includes a receiving portion (426) having a downward-facing opening, in use, the receiving portion receiving part of the catch device (118').
25. A system according to claim 24, wherein the downward-facing opening (426) has a larger dimension than a corresponding dimension of the received part of the catch device (118').
26. A system according to claim 19, wherein a said catch device (118) includes a moveable member (406), the moveable member being biased to a state where it contacts the structure-mounted member (120).
27. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a lower poster member (116) comprising an elongate member that is attached, in use, to a lower end of the poster (114).
28. A system according to claim 27, when dependent upon claim 18, wherein the at least one catch device (118) is mounted on the lower poster member (116).
29. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a width of at least the poster holding member (110) is adjustable.
30. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including at least one tensioning device (112A) for, in use, applying tension to a portion of the poster (114).
31. A system according to claim 30, wherein a said tensioning device (11 2A) includes: a first component (702) fixed to a component of the system (100) or a structure (104); a second component (718, 718') that is, in use, attached to a portion of the poster (114), and an arrangement (706, 714) configured to apply tension so that a portion of the poster is held in tension between the first component and the second component.
32. A system according to claim 31, wherein the arrangement (706, 714) configured to apply tension is adjustable by a user.
33. A system according to claim 32, wherein the first (702) or the second (718) component is directly or indirectly mounted on an elongate threaded member (706).
34. A system according to any one of claims 30 to 33, when dependent upon claim 27, wherein the first component (702) is fixed to an end of the poster holding member (110) or an end of the lower poster member (116).
35. A system according to claim 34, wherein a pair of said tensioning devices (112) are provided, one at, or adjacent, each end of the poster holding member (110) and a further pair of said tensioning devices (11 2A) are provided, one at, or adjacent, each end of the lower poster member (116).
36. A system according to any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein the second component (718) is, in use, attached to the poster (114) at at least two points.
37. A kit including a system (100, 100', 100") according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one poster (114).
38. A kit including a system (100, 100', 100") according to any one of claims 1 to 36, at least one catch device (118) and at least one structure-mounted member (120).
39. A method of installing, displaying and/or replacing a poster (114) using a system (100) according to any one of claims ito 36.
40. A poster display system substantially as described herein and/or with reference to the accompanying drawings.
41. A catch device (118) adapted for use in a poster display system, the catch device configured, in use, to (directly or indirectly) releaseably attach a portion of a poster (114) to a structure (104).
42. A catch device according to claim 41, configured to cooperate with at least one structure-mounted member (120, 120').
43. A catch device according to claim 42, wherein the catch device (118) is configured to, in use, automatically engage and/or disengage with a structure-mounted member (120) when a portion of the poster (114) is at a certain position relative to the structure-mounted member.
44. A catch device according to any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein the catch device (118) is configured so that, in use, when the poster (114) is in its display position, the catch device is at least partially obscured behind the poster.
45. A catch device according to any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein the structure-mounted member (120, 120') is mounted on the structure (104) so that, in use, when the poster (114) is in its display position, the structure-mounted member is at least partially obscured behind the poster.
46. A catch device according to any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein the catch device (118') includes an upwardly projecting member (502).
47. A catch device according to claim 46, wherein the structure-mounted member (120') includes a receiving portion (426) having a downward-facing opening, in use, the receiving portion receiving part of the catch device (118').
48. A system according to claim 47, wherein the downward-facing opening (426) has a larger dimension than a corresponding dimension of the part of the catch device (118').
49. A system according to claim 48, wherein the catch device (118) includes a moveable member (406), the moveable member being biased to a state where it contacts the structure-mounted member (120).
50. A catch device substantially as described herein and/or with reference to the accompanying drawings.
51. A poster tensioning device (112A) adapted to, in use, apply tension to a portion of a poster (114).
52. A tensioning device according to claim 51 including: a first component (702) fixed to a component of a poster display system (100) or a structure (104); a second component (718, 718') that is, in use, attached to a portion of the poster (114), and an arrangement (706, 714) configured to apply tension so that a portion of the poster is held in tension between the first component and the second component.
53. A tensioning device according to claim 52, wherein the arrangement (706, 714) configured to apply tension is adjustable by a user.
54. A tensioning device according to claim 53, wherein the first (702) or the second (718) component is directly or indirectly mounted on an elongate threaded member (706).
55. A tensioning device according to claim 52, wherein the first component (702) is fixed to an end of a member (110, 116) attached to the poster (114).
56. A system according to any one of claims 52 to 57, wherein the second component (718) is, in use, attached to the poster (114) at at least two points.
57. A poster tensioning device substantially as described herein andlor with reference to the accompanying drawings.