Dispenser/retraction unit

Abstract

A dispenser/retraction unit comprises an elongate flexible member 14 and at least one tensioning means 16 , the flexible member 14 passing around at least part of the tensioning means 16 , the tensioning means 16 having a biassing load 16 applied thereto urging the tensioning means 16 in a direction tending to retract the flexible member 14.

1 . A dispenser/retraction unit comprising an elongate flexible member and at least one tensioning means, the flexible member passing around at least part of the tensioning means, the tensioning means having a biassing load applied thereto urging the tensioning means in a direction tending to retract the flexible member.  
     
     
         2 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein the tensioning means comprises a pulley, roller or similar component.  
     
     
         3 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein the tensioning means comprises a rod or bar around which the flexible member extends.  
     
     
         4 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein tensioning means is moveable linearly or generally linearly by the biassing load, in use.  
     
     
         5 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein the tensioning means is movement along an arcuate path.  
     
     
         6 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein the flexible elongate member is of an elastic material.  
     
     
         7 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein the tensioning means is biassed by means of weight.  
     
     
         8 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein the tensioning means is resiliently biassed.  
     
     
         9 . A unit according to  claim 8 , wherein the tensioning means is biassed by means of a spring or a length of suitable elastic material.  
     
     
         10 . A unit according to  claim 8 , wherein a gas strut to provide the biassing load.  
     
     
         11 . A unit according to  claim 1 , further comprising one or more additional tensioning means around at least part of which the elongate member passes.  
     
     
         12 . A unit according to  claim 11 , wherein one or more of the additional tensioning means are fixed.  
     
     
         13 . A unit according to  claim 11 , wherein one or more of the additional tensioning means are moveable and have a biassing load applied thereto.  
     
     
         14 . A unit according to  claim 13 , wherein the biassing load is applied commonly.  
     
     
         15 . A unit according to  claim 13 , wherein separate biassing loads are provided for each tensioning mens.  
     
     
         16 . A unit according to  claim 13 , wherein the tensioning means are arranged in groups, biassing means being associated with each group.  
     
     
         17 . A unit according to  claim 1 , wherein the elongate flexible member comprises at least one of a length of webbing, a rope or rope-like material, an elastic material, an electrical cable or flex, and a hose.  
     
     
         18 . A unit according to  claim 1 , further comprising a housing within which the tensioning means is located, the housing having an opening or openings from which the elongate flexible member can be drawn.  
     
     
         19 . A retractable barrier comprising a unit according to  claim 18.