BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to smoke barriers, such as smoke curtains.

[0002] The present invention concerns smoke barriers. More particularly, but not exclusively, this invention concerns a smoke barrier apparatus. The invention also concerns a curtain for use in such a smoke barrier apparatus and a kit.

[0003] Smoke barrier apparatuses are known to those skilled in the art. They typically comprise a curtain typically comprising a sheet of flame-resistant material that may be moved between a deployed position and a retracted position. In the deployed position the smoke curtain provides an aperture (such as a doorway or entrance way) with a barrier to inhibit passage of smoke therethrough. The edges of the curtain are typically received in channel guides that are provided with brushes that form seals against the adjacent curtain. The curtain is typically deployed from, and retrieved onto, a roller, which is located in a container, often known as a head box. Smoke may pass from one side of a deployed curtain, through the head box to the other side of the curtain, therefore bypassing the curtain. To counter this, the container may be provided with brushes that contact the curtain, inhibiting passage of smoke into the container. Such contact may not form a terribly effective seal. An alternative arrangement is to provide the container with two curtain-contacting members that cause a kink to form in the curtain, with the curtain being positively engaged with the curtain-contacting members. Such an arrangement may form an effective smoke seal, but may lead to wear of the curtain as the curtain is deployed and retrieved.

[0004] The applicant has surprisingly discovered that it is possible to construct a functioning smoke barrier apparatus without curtain-contacting brushes.

[0005] The present invention seeks to mitigate the above-mentioned problems. Alternatively or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved smoke barrier apparatus. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a smoke barrier apparatus comprising: a curtain movable between a retracted position and a deployed position in which passage of smoke therepast is inhibited; the curtain being attached to a roller that is rotatable to move the curtain between the retracted position and the deployed position, the roller being located within a container; and at least one container sealing means for forming a seal with a surface of the container thereby inhibiting the passage of smoke therepast.

[0007] The container sealing means forms a seal with a surface of the container to inhibit passage of smoke therepast. The applicant has found that it is possible to form a seal with the container (such as a head box) to inhibit passage of smoke therepast, thereby removing the need for brushes that contact the curtain.

[0008] The container sealing means is for inhibiting passage of smoke from one side of the curtain to the other side of a respective curtain through the container. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means is optionally located in the container. The apparatus may comprise a plurality of container sealing means. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each container sealing means may form a seal with an internal surface of the container.

[0009] The container may, for example, comprise a head box.

[0010] At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each container sealing means may be deformable. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each container sealing means may be attached to the curtain. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means may be attached to the curtain to provide a seal between the respective container sealing means and the curtain to which the container sealing means is attached. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each container sealing means may comprise a sheet and/or fabric. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each container sealing means may comprise material from which the curtain is made.

[0011] At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means may be movable from a first position in which the container sealing means does not form a seal with a surface of the container and a second position in which the container sealing means forms a seal with a surface of the container.

[0012] Movement of at least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means from the first position to the second position may be associated with deployment of the curtain from a raised position. Movement of the curtain from a raised position to a lowered position (and optionally a deployed position) may cause at least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means to form a seal with a surface of the container.

[0013] At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means may comprise a weighted portion that has a greater weight per unit length than other portions of the container sealing means. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means may comprise a weighted portion that has a greater weight per unit length than the remainder of the container sealing means. The weighted portion may be an end portion. The weighted portion may, for example, be an end portion distal from an end portion of the container sealing means that is attached to the curtain. If a container sealing means comprises fabric, then the weighted portion may comprise multiple thicknesses of fabric (for example, a double or triple thickness of fabric). It is thought that the provision of a weighted portion facilitates the formation of a seal with a surface of the container, and may facilitate the correct positioning of the container sealing means.

[0014] At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means may comprise an elongate flap, for example, a flap of fabric or material, which is attached to the curtain. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means may be made from the same fabric as the curtain. [0015] The curtain may have a width. The width of at least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, container sealing means may be greater than the width of the curtain. Such an arrangement facilitates good inhibition of passage of smoke through the container.

[0016] At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each of the container sealing means comprises at least one edge. When the curtain is deployed, at least one edge, optionally more than one edge and optionally each edge is proximate to, and optionally in contact with, an internal surface of the container. Such an arrangement provides good inhibition of passage of smoke therepast. Such an internal surface of the container may, for example, be provided by a mounting plate for mounting the roller. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each internal surface of the container may be an internal surface of an end of the container.

[0017] At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each of the container sealing means may extend past an edge, and optionally past two edges, of the curtain. This facilitates sealing with internal surfaces of the container.

[0018] The container may comprise one or more deflectors for deflecting one or more container sealing means into a desired position, for example, as the curtain is being deployed. For example, a deflector may be in the form of a lip, such as a lip that extends from a wall of the container. The deflector lip may extend towards the curtain. The deflector lip may extend at least partially upwardly from a wall of the container. A deflector may help ensure that a container sealing means is deployed into the correct position when the curtain has been deployed.

[0019] The container may comprise one or more receivers for receiving one or more container sealing means in a desired position, for example, as the curtain is being deployed and/or when the curtain has been deployed. For example, a receiver may be in the form of a lip, such as a lip that extends from a wall of the container. The receiver lip may extend towards the curtain. The receiver lip may extend at least partially upwardly from a wall of the container. A receiver may help ensure that a container sealing means is in the correct position once the curtain has been deployed. A receiver may form a receiving space between the receiver and a wall of the container, the receiving space being configured to receive the container sealing means, for example, when the curtain has been deployed. Typically, the receiver may receive an end portion of a container sealing means.

[0020] As mentioned above, the container may be provided with an aperture through which the curtain is deployed and raised. A receiver may be located to one side of the aperture and a deflector may be located to another side of the aperture.

[0021] The apparatus may, for example, comprise a first container sealing means located on a first side of the curtain and a second container sealing means located on a second side of the curtain. The first container sealing means may be attached to a first side of the curtain. The second container sealing means may be attached to a second side of the curtain. The first side of the curtain may be opposite the second side of the curtain. The first and second container sealing means may be located substantially opposite to one another. The area of attachment of the first container sealing means to the curtain may be substantially opposite to the area of attachment of the second container means to the curtain. In this way, the first and second container sealing means may be attached to a first and a second side of the same portion of curtain. The first container sealing means may be configured such that lowering of the curtain optionally causes the first container sealing means to form a seal against a surface of the container, said surface being to the first side of the curtain. The second container sealing means may be configured such that lowering of the curtain optionally causes the second container sealing means to form a seal against a surface of the container, said surface being to the second side of the curtain. The first and second container sealing means may optionally be located on opposite sides of the curtain.

[0022] The container may be provided with an aperture through which the curtain is retracted and deployed. The aperture is typically an elongate aperture, and may be in the form of a slot. The first container sealing means may form a seal with a surface of the container to a first side of the aperture, and the second container sealing means may form a seal with a surface of the container to a second side of the aperture. This facilitates the formation of seals on each side of the aperture, which may be advantageous in inhibiting passage of smoke through the container, especially if the first and second container sealing means are each attached to the curtain.

[0023] Each of the first and second container sealing means optionally has a length. The lengths of the first and second container sealing means may be mutually different. This may facilitate the formation of seals with the surfaces of the container, depending on the positions of the container sealing means.

[0024] Alternative arrangements of container sealing means are possible. For example, the apparatus may comprise a first container sealing means located on a first side of the curtain, and a second container sealing means located on a first side of the respective curtain. The first and second container sealing means may be configured such that lowering of the curtain optionally causes the first container sealing means to form a seal against a first internal surface of the container, and the second container sealing means to form a seal against a second internal surface of the container. The first and second internal surfaces of the container may be opposite one another. The first and/or second container sealing means may have one or more of the features described above in relation to container sealing means.

[0025] The arrangements describe above use two container sealing means to form seals with one or more surfaces of the container. It is possible to have alternative arrangements. For example, it is possible to have one (and only one) container sealing means. Such an arrangement with a single container sealing means would, in certain circumstances, permit smoke to enter the container, but would not permit passage of smoke through the container.

[0026] It is also possible to have more than two container sealing means to form seals with one or more surfaces of the container. For example, the apparatus may comprise a first container sealing means located on a first side of the curtain, and a second container sealing means located on a second side of the curtain. The first container sealing means may be configured to form a seal against a first surface of the container. The second container sealing means may be configured to form a seal against a second surface of the container. A third container sealing means may be located on the first side of a respective curtain, and a fourth sealing means may be located on the first side of the respective curtain. Lowering of the respective curtain optionally causes the third container sealing means to form a seal against a third surface of the container, and the fourth container sealing means to form a seal against a fourth surface of the container. The third and fourth surfaces of the container may be opposite one another. Such an arrangement provides several seals against internal surfaces of the container, thereby providing enhanced inhibition against smoke passage.

[0027] The roller may optionally be coupled to a motor for rotating the roller. The motor may optionally be at least partially located within the roller. The apparatus may comprise a means for moving the curtain from the deployed position to the retracted position comprising the roller and the motor. The means for moving the curtain from the deployed position to the retracted position may be located within the container.

[0028] The means for moving the curtain from the deployed position to the retracted position may also be configured for moving the curtain from the retracted position to the deployed position. This is often known as “drive-down” to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, the curtain may be movable from the retracted position to the deployed position by the release of a brake and the application of gravity, particularly if the curtain is provided with a weight. Such weights are typically used to help the curtain to hang properly and may be used to deploy the curtain from the retracted position to the deployed position.

[0029] The roller may optionally store the curtain when the curtain is in a retracted, nondeployed configuration. The container may, for example, contain the majority of the curtain when the curtain is in a retracted, non-deployed position.

[0030] The curtain may be provided with a sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus, the sealing member being associated with, and optionally attached to, an edge portion of the curtain. The first sealing member may form a seal with an associated sealforming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus to inhibit passage of smoke therepast, typically inhibiting passage of smoke past the edge of the curtain.

[0031] For the avoidance of doubt, the sealing member may form a seal with the sealforming surface when the curtain is in the deployed position. The sealing member may be biased into the seal-forming surface. For example, the shape and size of the sealing member, having regard to the distance between the curtain and the seal-forming surface, may be such that it is biased into the seal-forming surface. In such an arrangement, the sealing member forms a seal with the seal-forming surface under normal conditions (i.e. in the absence of a fire). The sealing member may be movable into sealing engagement with the seal-forming surface. For example, the sealing member may be movable from a non-sealing position into a sealing position in which the sealing member is in sealing engagement with the seal-forming surface. Alternatively, the sealing member may be movable from a first sealing position in which the sealing member is in sealing engagement with the seal-forming surface into a second sealing position in which the sealing member is in enhanced sealing engagement with the seal-forming surface. The sealing member may be movable, for example, by increased or decreased air pressure, such as may occur in the event of a fire, or by movement of the curtain, which movement may (for example) be associated with an increased or decreased air pressure.

[0032] The sealing member may optionally project away from a side of the curtain towards the seal-forming surface.

[0033] The sealing member may be or comprise sheet material, such as sheet fabric material. This is particularly the case if the sealing member comprises a flap.

[0034] The sealing member may comprise a flap. The flap is optionally elongate and may extend along the length of the curtain in order to form a seal between the curtain and the respective seal-forming surface along the length of the curtain.

[0035] The sealing member may be sewn to the curtain or may be attached to the curtain by a means for attaching the sealing member to the curtain.

[0036] The sealing member may be attached to an edge portion of the curtain. The sealing member may project from an edge portion of the curtain. The sealing member may project from the respective edge portion at an angle to the surface of the respective edge portion of no more than 90 degrees, and optionally at an angle to the surface of the edge portion of from about 30 to about 60 degrees.

[0037] The seal-forming surface may be provided by a means for receiving a portion of the curtain. The means for receiving a portion of the curtain may comprise a means for receiving an edge portion of the curtain. Such a means for receiving an edge portion of the curtain may guide the curtain as it is being deployed and/or retracted. The means for receiving a portion of the curtain may be provided with a channel for the receipt of the curtain. The means for receiving an edge portion of the curtain may be provided with a channel for receipt of an edge portion of the curtain. Such a channel may be elongate and may be parallel to the curtain when the curtain is deployed. Such a means for receiving a portion of the channel may be a channel guide. The smoke barrier apparatus may comprise more than one means for receiving a portion of the curtain. For example, the smoke barrier apparatus may comprise two means for receiving an edge of the curtain, one such means being configured to receive a first edge of the curtain and the other such means being configured to receive a second edge of the curtain. For the avoidance of doubt, the curtain may extend between the first and second edges.

[0038] The means for receiving a portion of the curtain may provide more than one sealforming surface. For example, the means for receiving a portion of the curtain may provide two seal-forming surfaces. The two seal forming surfaces may optionally face one another.

[0039] The curtain may be provided with more than one sealing member associated with an edge portion of the curtain, as is discussed below. For the avoidance of doubt, at least one, optionally more than one and optionally each of the sealing members discussed below may have the features discussed above in relation to “the sealing member”.

[0040] If the curtain is provided with more than one sealing member, then a first sealing member may project away from a first side of the curtain towards a first seal-forming surface and a second sealing member may project away from a second side of the surface towards a second seal-forming surface, the second side of the curtain being opposite the first side of the curtain. The first sealing member and the second sealing member may be attached to, and/or project away from, a first edge portion of the curtain at or proximate to the first edge of the curtain.

[0041] If the curtain is provided with more than one sealing member, then a first sealing member may project away from a first side of the curtain towards a first seal-forming surface and a second sealing member may project away from the first side of the surface towards a second seal-forming surface. In this case, for example, the first sealing member may be associated with a first edge of the curtain and the second sealing member may be associated with a second edge of the curtain, the curtain extending between the first and second edges. The first sealing member may be attached to, and/or project away from, a first edge portion of the curtain at or proximate to the first edge of the curtain and the second sealing member may be attached to, and/or project away from, a second edge portion of the curtain at or proximate to the second edge of the curtain.

[0042] The curtain may be provided with a first sealing member which projects away from a first side of the curtain towards a first seal-forming surface, a second sealing member which projects away from a second side of the curtain towards a second sealforming surface, a third sealing member which projects away from the first side of the curtain towards a third seal-forming surface and a fourth sealing member which projects away from the second side of the curtain towards a fourth seal-forming surface, the second side of the curtain being opposite the first side of the curtain. The first and third sealing members may be associated with a first edge of the curtain. The second and fourth sealing members may be associated with a second edge of the curtain. The first and sealing members may be attached to, and/or project away from, a first edge portion of the curtain at or proximate to the first edge of the curtain and the third and fourth sealing members may be attached to, and/or project away from, a second edge portion of the curtain at or proximate to the second edge of the curtain.

[0043] The apparatus may comprise more than one curtain. More than one curtain may be provided with container sealing means as described above. For example, the apparatus may comprise two curtains, each of which is located in one and the same container, each comprising container sealing means as described above for forming seals with one or more surfaces of the container. Alternatively, the two curtains may be located in different containers.

[0044] More than one curtain may be provided with the sealing members located at the edges of respective curtains. The applicant has discovered that it is possible for those sealing members to seal with a surface of an adjacent curtain. The apparatus may therefore comprise: a first curtain movable between a retracted position and a deployed position in which passage of smoke therepast is inhibited; the first curtain being provided with a first sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus, and a second sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of another curtain; and a second curtain movable between a retracted position and a deployed position in which passage of smoke therepast is inhibited; the second curtain being provided with a first sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus, and a second sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of another curtain.

[0045] At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each of the sealing members is typically associated with an edge of the respective curtain. The applicant has discovered that it is possible to construct relatively large smoke barrier apparatus by providing curtains with sealing members that may form seals with other curtains.

[0046] The second sealing member of the second curtain may be arranged for forming a seal with a surface of the first curtain. Similarly, the second sealing member of the first curtain may be arranged for forming a seal with a surface of the second curtain.

[0047] The second sealing member of the first curtain may overlap with another curtain. The second sealing member of the first curtain may overlap with a sealing member of another curtain. The second sealing member of the first curtain may be for forming a seal with a sealing member of another curtain.

[0048] The second sealing member of the second curtain may overlap with another curtain. The second sealing member of the second curtain may overlap with a sealing member of another curtain. The second sealing member of the second curtain may be for forming a seal with a sealing member of another curtain. For example, the second sealing member of the first curtain may overlap with the second sealing member of the second curtain for forming a seal between the second members of the first and second curtains. The other curtain(s) may be deployable between retracted and deployed positions, as are the first and second curtains.

[0049] The first curtain may comprise a third sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of another curtain. The third sealing member is typically associated with an edge of the respective curtain. The second curtain may comprise a third sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of another curtain. Once again, the third sealing member is typically associated with an edge of the respective curtain. The third sealing member of the first curtain may overlap with a sealing member of another curtain. The third sealing member of the first curtain may be for forming a seal with a sealing member of another curtain. The third sealing member of the second curtain may overlap with a sealing member of another curtain. The third sealing member of the second curtain may be for forming a seal with a sealing member of another curtain. For example, the third sealing member of the first curtain may overlap with the second or third sealing member of the second curtain, and the third sealing member of the second curtain may overlap with the second or third sealing member of the first curtain.

[0050] Alternatively, the smoke barrier apparatus may be provided with a third curtain, the third curtain being provided with a first sealing member for forming a seal inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of a first other curtain and a second sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of a second other curtain. The first sealing member of the third curtain is typically associated with an edge of the third curtain. The first other curtain may be, for example, the first curtain of the smoke barrier apparatus, and the second other curtain may be, for example, the second curtain of the smoke barrier apparatus. The third curtain may be deployable between deployed and retracted positions.

[0051] The second sealing member of the first curtain may overlap with a sealing member of the third curtain, and the second sealing member of the second curtain overlaps with a sealing member of the third curtain. The third curtain may be provided with first and second sealing members that overlap with second and third sealing members of a first adjacent curtain (such as the first curtain). The sealing members are each typically associated with an edge of a respective curtain. The third curtain may be provided with third and fourth sealing members that overlap with second and third sealing members of a second adjacent curtain (such as the second curtain). The third and fourth sealing members are each typically associated with an edge of the respective curtain.

[0052] The smoke barrier apparatus may be provided with a plurality of additional curtains (that is, in addition to the first and second curtains), each of the additional curtains being provided with a first sealing member for forming a seal inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of a first other curtain and a second sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of a second other curtain. Each of the first and second sealing members of the additional curtains are typically associated with an edge of a respective curtain. The plurality of additional curtains may be deployable between retracted and deployed positions. In this way, a “chain” of curtains may be formed, with sealing contact between adjacent curtains to inhibit the passage of smoke therepast. For example, if the smoke barrier apparatus comprised four curtains, the second sealing member of the first curtain would be for forming a seal with the first sealing member of the third curtain. The second sealing member of the third curtain would be for forming a seal with the first sealing member of the fourth curtain. The second sealing member of the fourth curtain would be for forming a seal with the second sealing member of the second curtain. Sealing members of adjacent curtains may overlap for forming a seal between the sealing members.

[0053] At least two adjacent curtains may be provided with at least one sealing member that overlaps with a corresponding sealing member on the other adjacent curtain. At least two adjacent curtains may be provided with a plurality of sealing members, each of which overlaps with a corresponding sealing member on the other adjacent curtain. The overlapping sealing members may be for forming a seal against the adjacent curtain and optionally against one another. Once again, each sealing member is typically associated with an edge of a curtain. [0054] For the avoidance of doubt, each of the sealing members mentioned above may form a seal with the respective seal forming surface or a surface of another curtain when the curtain is in the deployed position. One or more, optionally more than one and optionally each of the sealing members may be biased into sealing contact with the sealforming surface or a surface of another curtain. For example, the shape and size of a sealing member, having regard to the distance between the curtain and the seal-forming surface or a surface of another curtain, may be such that it is biased into the seal-forming surface or a surface of another curtain. In such an arrangement, the sealing member forms a seal with the seal-forming surface or a surface of another curtain under normal conditions (i.e. in the absence of a fire). One or more, optionally more than one and optionally each sealing member may be movable into sealing engagement with the sealforming surface or a surface of another curtain. For example, one or more, optionally more than one and optionally each sealing member may be movable from a non-sealing position into a sealing position in which the sealing member is in sealing engagement with the seal-forming surface or a surface of another curtain. Alternatively, one or more, optionally more than one and optionally each sealing member may be movable from a first sealing position in which the sealing member is in sealing engagement with the sealforming surface or other curtain into a second sealing position in which the sealing member is in enhanced sealing engagement with the seal-forming surface or a surface of another curtain. Optionally, one or more, optionally more than one and optionally each sealing member may be movable, for example, by increased air pressure, such as may occur in the event of a fire.

[0055] One or more, optionally more than one and optionally each sealing member may be deformable, optionally resiliently deformable.

[0056] The first sealing members of the first and second curtains may optionally project away from a side of the curtain towards the seal-forming surface.

[0057] One or more, optionally more than one and optionally each of the sealing members may be or comprise sheet material, such as sheet fabric material. This is particularly the case if the sealing member comprises a flap. The sheet material may be the same material used to make the respective curtain. [0058] One or more, optionally more than one and optionally each of the sealing members may comprise a flap. The flap is optionally elongate and may extend along the length of the curtain in order to form a seal between the curtain and the respective sealforming surface or a surface of another curtain along the length of the curtain. If the flap forms a seal with another curtain, then the flap may form a seal along the length of the other curtain.

[0059] One or more, optionally more than one and optionally each of the sealing members may be sewn to the curtain or may be attached to the curtain by a means for attaching the sealing member to the curtain.

[0060] One or more, optionally more than one and optionally each sealing member may be associated with an edge portion of the curtain. The sealing member may be attached to an edge portion of the curtain. The sealing member may project from an edge portion of the curtain. The sealing member may project from the respective edge portion at an angle to the surface of the respective edge portion of no more than 90 degrees, and optionally at an angle to the surface of the edge portion of from about 30 to about 60 degrees.

[0061] The seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus for forming a seal with the respective first or second curtain may be provided by a means for receiving a portion of the curtain. The means for receiving a portion of the curtain may comprise a means for receiving an edge portion of the curtain. Such a means for receiving an edge portion of the curtain may guide the curtain as it is being deployed and/or retracted. The means for receiving a portion of the curtain may be provided with a channel for the receipt of the curtain. The means for receiving an edge portion of the curtain may be provided with a channel for receipt of an edge portion of the curtain. Such a channel may be elongate and may be parallel to the curtain when the curtain is deployed. Such a means for receiving a portion of the channel may be a channel guide. The means for receiving a portion of the curtain may comprise two legs forming a passage for receiving a portion of the curtain. The legs may be substantially parallel to the curtain in normal use. At least one of the legs (and optionally each of the legs) may be provided with a foot that extends at an angle from the respective leg, optionally approximately normal to the respective leg. Optionally, a foot is provided at or proximate an end of the respective leg. Optionally, an end of a leg and optionally an end of each leg may provide the seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus. Optionally, a foot (and optionally two feet) provide the sealforming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus.

[0062] The means for receiving a portion of the curtain may provide more than one sealforming surface. For example, the means for receiving a portion of the curtain may provide two seal-forming surfaces. The two seal forming surfaces may optionally face one another.

[0063] Each of the first and second curtains may be provided with more than one sealing member for forming a seal with a seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus, as is discussed below. For the avoidance of doubt, at least one, optionally more than one and optionally each of the sealing members discussed below may have the features discussed above in relation to “the sealing member”.

[0064] If the curtain is provided with more than one sealing member for forming a seal with a seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus, then the first sealing member may project away from a first side of the curtain towards a first seal-forming surface and a further sealing member may project away from a second side of the surface towards a second seal-forming surface, the second side of the curtain being opposite the first side of the curtain. The first sealing member and the further sealing member may be attached to, and/or project away from, a first edge portion of the curtain at or proximate to the first edge of the curtain.

[0065] For example, the first curtain may be provided with the first sealing member which projects away from a first side of the first curtain towards a first seal-forming surface, a further sealing member which projects away from a second side of the first curtain towards a second seal-forming surface and the second sealing member which projects away from the first or second side of the first curtain towards another curtain.

[0066] Similarly, the second curtain may be provided with the first sealing member which projects away from a first side of the second curtain towards a first seal-forming surface, a further sealing member which projects away from a second side of the second curtain towards a second seal-forming surface and the second sealing member which projects away from the first or second side of the second curtain towards another curtain. [0067] Each curtain may optionally be provided with a means for moving the respective curtain from the deployed position to the retracted position. The means for moving the curtain from the deployed position to the retracted position may comprise a roller to which the curtain is attached and a motor for rotating the roller. The motor may be at least partially located within the roller.

[0068] In some embodiments, the apparatus may not include a smoke (and optionally fire) barrier apparatus comprising: a first curtain movable between a retracted position and a deployed position in which passage of smoke therepast is inhibited; the first curtain being provided with a first sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus, and a second sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of another curtain; and a second curtain movable between a retracted position and a deployed position in which passage of smoke therepast is inhibited; the second curtain being provided with a first sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a seal-forming surface of the smoke barrier apparatus, and a second sealing member for forming a seal for inhibiting passage of smoke therepast with a surface of another curtain.

[0069] The apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention may also inhibit the passage therepast of fire/heat when the curtain is deployed, and may therefore be a fire and smoke barrier apparatus.

[0070] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a curtain for use in the smoke (and optionally fire) barrier apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, the curtain being provided with at least one container sealing means for forming a seal with a surface of a container in which the curtain is to be located, thereby inhibiting the passage of smoke therepast. The curtain may be provided with more than one container sealing means. At least one and more than one of the container sealing means may have the features described above in relation to the smoke (and optionally fire) barrier apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention. The curtain may have the features described above in relation to the smoke (and optionally fire) barrier apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0071] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit for converting a smoke (and optionally fire) curtain into a smoke (and optionally fire) barrier apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, the kit comprising a container sealing means as described above in relation to the smoke (and optionally fire) barrier apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention and a means for attaching the container sealing means to the curtain.

[0072] The kit of the third aspect of the present invention may comprise more than one container sealing means, and may comprise more than one means for attaching the container sealing means to the curtain. The container sealing means may have the features described above in relation to the smoke (and optionally fire) barrier apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0073] It will, of course, be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the present invention may be incorporated into other aspects of the present invention. For example, the kit of the third aspect of the present invention may incorporate any of the features described with reference to the apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention and vice versa.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings of which:

[0075] Figure 1 shows a side-on, partly cross-sectional view of a first example of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention, with the curtain deployed; [0076] Figure 2 shows a plan view of the apparatus of Figure 1, with the curtain retracted;

[0077] Figure 3 shows a side-on, partly cross-sectional view of part of the fire and smoke barrier apparatus of Figures 1 and 2, with the curtain deployed;

[0078] Figure 4 shows a side-on, schematic view of a region of the fire and smoke barrier apparatus of Figures 1, 2 and 3;

[0079] Figure 5 shows a plan view of part of the apparatus of Figure 1;

[0080] Figure 6 shows a schematic plan view of another example of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0081] Figure 7 shows a schematic plan view of part of the fire and smoke barrier apparatus of Figure 6, showing how sealing members are arranged in relation to channels with which the sealing members form seals;

[0082] Figure 8 shows a schematic plan view of the apparatus of Figs. 6 and 7, showing the overlap between adjacent curtains;

[0083] Figure 9 shows a schematic plan view of a further example of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0084] Figure 10 shows a schematic plan view of part of another example of an embodiment of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

[0085] Figure 11 shows a schematic plan view of yet another example of an embodiment of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

[0086] Figure 12A shows a schematic plan view of part of a further example of an embodiment of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention, in which the sealing members at the edges of the curtain are in a non-sealing configuration;

[0087] Figure 12B shows a schematic plan view of part of a further example of an embodiment of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention, in which the sealing members at the edges of the curtain are in a sealing configuration; [0088] Figure 13 is a schematic side-on cross-sectional view of the smoke and fire barrier apparatus of Figure 6;

[0089] Figure 14 is a schematic side-on cross-sectional view of another smoke and fire barrier apparatus; and

[0090] Figure 15 is a schematic side-on cross-sectional view of yet another smoke and fire barrier apparatus

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Figure 1 shows a side-on, partly cross-sectional view of an example of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The fire and smoke barrier apparatus is denoted generally by reference numeral 5001, and comprises a fire-resistant curtain 5002 comprising a sheet of fire-resistant material such as is well-known to those skilled in the art. The fire and smoke barrier apparatus 5001 is attached to a wall W adjacent an aperture A, in this case defining an entrance to a room. The curtain 5002 is attached to a roller 5003 that is rotated by a motor 5007 located inside roller 5003. The roller 5003 and motor 5007 are located inside a container 5004 in the form of a head box. The motor 5007 is used to move the roller 5003 to move the curtain from a deployed position in which the curtain 5002 forms a fire and smoke resistant barrier across the aperture A to a retracted position. A curtain weight 5010 is provided at the bottom of the curtain to facilitate correct hanging and deployment of the curtain 5002. When the curtain is to be deployed (for example, on detection of a fire, smoke and/or increased ambient temperature, or by a user at the end of a working day), a brake (not shown) is released and the curtain weight 5010 causes the curtain 5002 to move from the retracted to the deployed position. When in the deployed position, the flat-bottomed curtain weight 10 abuts the floor F. Figure 1 shows the curtain in a deployed position.

[0092] The apparatus 5001 comprises two container sealing means 5005a, 5005b in the form of two flaps made of the same fire-resistant material from which the curtain 5002 is made. One end of container sealing means 5005a is attached to a first side 5011 of curtain 5002, at a portion 5013 of curtain 5002. One end of container sealing means 5005b is attached to a second side 5012 of curtain 5002, at portion 5023 of curtain 5002. Attachments portion 5013 is slightly higher than attachment portion 5023. Referring to Figure 2, curtain 5002 has a width w. Container sealing means 5005a, 5005b have a width w2, which is greater than the width w of curtain 5002. Width w2 corresponds to the spacing of internal container surfaces 5041, 5042. The edges of container sealing means 5005a, 5005b contact internal container surfaces 5041, 5042 therefore inhibiting the passage of smoke therepast. This facilitates good smoke-seal protection. When the curtain 5002 is deployed, container sealing means 5005a contacts, and forms a seal with, container surface 5006a. Similarly, container sealing means 5005b contacts, and forms a seal with, container surface 5006b. Seals are therefore formed to a first side 5011 and to a second side 5012 of curtain 2. The formation of (i) a seal between container sealing means 5005a and surface 5006a, (ii) a seal between container sealing means 5005b and surface 5006b and (iii) the contact between the edges of container sealing means 5005a, 5005b and the internal container surfaces 5041, 5042 ensures good inhibition of smoke therepast. Such seals inhibit entry of smoke into container 5004 and, more importantly, inhibit passage of smoke through the container 5004 from one side of the curtain to another.

[0093] The ends 5014a, 5014b of the container sealing means 5005a, 5005b that are distal to the ends that are attached to curtain 5002 have a greater weight per unit length than other parts of the container sealing means 5005a, 5005b. Ends 5014a, 5014b comprise a double thickness of fabric and therefore have a greater weight per unit length than other parts of the container sealing means 5005a, 5005b. This extra weight helps provide a seal with the respective surface of the container.

[0094] Referring to Figures 1, 3 and 4, when the curtain 5002 is in the deployed position, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, end 5014b of container sealing means 5005b is received in a receiving space 5015 formed by a receiver 5016 and wall 5017 of container 5004. Receiver 5016 is in the form of a lip that projects upwardly and outwardly from wall 5017. Container sealing means 5005b may form a seal with one or both of surface 5016a of receiver 5016 and surface 5017a of wall 5017. Container sealing means 5005b has been omitted from Figure 4 for clarity. [0095] Such an arrangement of container sealing means 5005a, 5005b negates the need for a conventional sealing arrangement, which would be typically in the form of brushes provided in the aperture 5018 of container 5004, which brushes would contact curtain 5002. The effectiveness of the seal formed between the brushes and the curtain 5002 may not be good. Furthermore, the brushes may wear and/or deform over time, reducing the effectiveness of the seal formed between the curtain and the brushes.

[0096] The retraction and deployment of the curtain 5002 and the associated container sealing means 5005a, 5005b will now be described. Because container sealing means 5005a, 5005b are made of a fabric they are relatively flexible, and when the curtain 5002 is retracted, the container sealing means 5005a, 5005b essentially lie flat against the curtain 5002. Therefore, the container sealing means do not inhibit retraction or rolling- up of the curtain 5002. Container sealing means 5005a, 5005b are attached to the curtain 5002 such that, when the curtain 5002 is in the process of deploying, and the container sealing means 5005a, 5005b are not rolled-up, the container sealing means 5005a, 5005b hang away from the curtain 5002 i.e. with the distal ends 5014a, 5014b of the container sealing means 5005a, 5005b being displaced from the respective side 5011, 5012 of curtain 5002. A deflector 5019 is provided to ensure that container sealing means 5005a does not pass out of the container 5004 as the curtain 5002 is deployed, but is directed onto container surface 5006a. The deflector 5019 is in the form of a lip that projects upwardly and outwardly from container wall 5020. As the curtain 5002 is deployed, end 5014a of container sealing means 5005a contacts deflector 5019, and moves along container surface 5006a as the curtain 5002 is lowered further. The final position of end 5014a when the curtain 5002 has been fully deployed is shown in Figures 1 and 3. End 5014b of container sealing means 5005b is received into receiving space 5015 as the curtain is deployed. The final position of end 5014b when the curtain 5002 has been fully deployed is shown in Figures 1 and 3.

[0097] Other aspects of the apparatus 5001 will now be described with reference to Figures 2 and 5. Curtain edge portions 5030a, 5030b are located in channel guides 5031a, 5031b, which guide the curtain as it is deployed and/or retracted. In a known, conventional arrangement, each of channel guides 5031a, 5031b would be provided with a smoke seal that forms a seal with the curtain to inhibit passage of smoke from one side of the curtain to the other when the curtain is deployed. A smoke seal is typically in the form of an elongate brush (often known as a brush strip) that forms a seal with the curtain.

[0098] In the arrangement of the present invention, there is no need for each of the channel guides 5031a, 5031b to be provided with a conventional smoke seal. Each curtain edge portion 5030a, 5030b is provided with a pair of elongate sealing flaps, two of which are labelled in Figure 5 5032a, 5032b. Each elongate sealing flap 5032a, 5032b is made of a fabric material. The flaps 5032a, 5032b are attached to the respective edge portion 5030b of the curtain 5002 by sewing, although those skilled in that art will realise that other means for attachment are possible. Sealing flap 5032a projects away from second side 5012 of curtain 5002 and sealing flap 5032b projects away from first side 5011 of curtain 5002.

[0099] When a fire occurs, there is typically an increased air pressure on one side of the curtain. This causes flaps 5032a, 5032b to become sealingly engaged with end surfaces 5034a, 5034b. This sealing engagement provides protection against the passage of smoke. [00100] Figure 6 shows an exploded view of an example of a fire and smoke barrier apparatus according to a further embodiment of the present invention. The fire and smoke barrier apparatus is denoted generally by reference numeral 1, and comprises a first fire-resistant curtain 100, a second fire-resistant curtain 200, a third fire-resistant curtain 300 and a fourth fire-resistant curtain 400, each of the fire-resistant curtains comprising a sheet of fire-resistant material, such material being well-known to those skilled in the art. The fire and smoke barrier apparatus 1 is attached to a wall W adjacent an aperture A, in this case defining a large entrance space in a shopping mall. Each curtain 100, 200, 300, 400 is attached to a respective roller 101, 201, 301, 401 that is rotated by a respective motor 102, 202, 302, 402 located inside the roller. Each roller and motor are located inside a respective head box (not shown). Each motor 102, 202, 302, 402 is used to move the respective roller 101, 201, 301, 401 to move the respective curtain 100, 200, 300, 400 from a deployed position in which the curtain 100, 200, 300, 400 forms a fire and smoke resistant barrier across the aperture A to a retracted position. A curtain weight 10 is provided at the bottom of the curtains 100, 200, 300, 400 to facilitate correct hanging and deployment of the curtains 100, 200, 300, 400. When the curtains are to be deployed (for example, on detection of a fire, smoke and/or increased ambient temperature, or by a user at the end of a working day), a brake (not shown) is released and the curtain weight 10 causes the curtains 100, 200, 300, 400 to move from the retracted to the deployed position. When in the deployed position, the flat-bottomed curtain weight 10 abuts the floor (not shown).

[00101] Curtain edge portion 106 of first curtain 100 is located in channel guide 107, which guides the first curtain 100 as it is deployed and/or retracted. In a known, conventional arrangement, channel guide 107 would be provided with a smoke seal that forms a seal with the curtain to inhibit passage of smoke from one side of the curtain to the other when the curtain is deployed. A smoke seal is typically in the form of an elongate brush (often known as a brush strip) that forms a seal with the curtain. Part of curtain edge portion 106 is located in passage 111 formed by legs 110a, 110b. Legs 110a, 110b are substantially parallel to one another and are substantially parallel to the curtain 100.

[00102] There is no need for channel guide 107 to be provided with a conventional smoke seal, although in certain embodiments this may be desirable. Curtain edge portion 106 is provided with a pair of elongate sealing flaps 108a, 108b. Each elongate sealing flap 108a, 108b is made of a fabric material that is the same as the fabric used to make the curtain 100. When curtain 100 is deployed, flaps 108a, 108b are not in sealing engagement with the channel guide 107. The flaps 108a, 108b are attached to the respective edge portion 106 of the first curtain 100 by sewing, although those skilled in that art will realise that other means for attachment are possible. Sealing flap 108a projects away from first side 102a of first curtain 100 and sealing flap 108b projects away from second side 102b of curtain 100.

[00103] Flaps 108a, 108b are configured so that increased air pressure moves the curtain, thereby urging the respective flap 108a, 108b into sealing engagement with the ends of legs 110a, 110b. This sealing engagement provides enhanced protection against the passage of smoke. In an alternative arrangement, when curtain 100 is deployed, flaps 108a, 108b may be in sealing engagement with channel guide 107, for example being in sealing engagement with corresponding channel guide surface 109a, 109b.

[00104] A similar arrangement is provided between the edge 206 of second curtain 200 and channel guide 207.

[00105] Each curtain 100, 200, 300, 400 is provided with sealing members that overlap with sealing members of adjacent curtains, as will now be described mainly with reference to Figures 6 and 8. First curtain 100 comprising second sealing member 105 in the form of an elongate flap of fabric that extends along the length of first curtain 100. The flap is approximately 700mm wide. Second sealing member 105 overlaps with first sealing member 304 of third curtain 300. First sealing member 304 of third curtain 300 is in the form of a flap that extends the length of third curtain 300. Once again, the flap is approximately 700mm wide. Second sealing member 305 of third curtain 300 overlaps with first sealing member 404 of fourth curtain 400. Second sealing member 305 of third curtain 300 is in the form of a flap that extends the length of third curtain 300. Once again, the flap is approximately 700mm wide. First sealing member 404 of fourth curtain 400 is in the form of a flap that extends the length of fourth curtain 400. Once again, the flap is approximately 700mm wide. Second sealing member 405 of fourth curtain 400 overlaps with second sealing member 205 of second curtain 200. Second sealing member 405 of fourth curtain 400 is in the form of a flap that extends the length of fourth curtain 400. Once again, the flap is approximately 700mm wide. Second sealing member 205 of second curtain 200 is in the form of a flap that extends the length of second curtain 200. Once again, the flap is approximately 700mm wide.

[00106] Overlapping flaps are configured so that increased air pressure that results from a fire urges the flaps into an enhanced sealing engagement with one another. This enhanced sealing engagement provides enhanced protection against the passage of smoke.

[00107] The arrangement described above in relation to Figs. 6 to 8 facilitates the production of large smoke and optionally fire resistant barriers that can be used for large apertures, such as entrances to malls and the like. [00108] Figure 9 shows a further example of an embodiment of a smoke and fire barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention. The apparatus is denoted generally by reference numeral 500 and comprises a first fire-resistant curtain 100 and a second fire-resistant curtain 200, each of the fire-resistant curtains comprising a sheet of fire-resistant material, such material being well-known to those skilled in the art. The fire and smoke barrier apparatus 500 is attached to a wall W adjacent an aperture A, in this case defining an entrance space in a car park. Each curtain 100, 200 is attached to a respective roller 101, 201 that is rotated by a respective motor 102, 202 located inside the roller. Each roller and motor are located inside a respective head box (not shown). Each motor 102, 202 is used to move the respective roller 101, 201 to move the respective curtain 100, 200, 300 from a deployed position in which the curtain 100, 200 forms a fire and smoke resistant barrier across the aperture A to a retracted position. A curtain weight 10 is provided at the bottom of the curtains 100, 200 to facilitate correct hanging and deployment of the curtains 100, 200. When the curtains are to be deployed (for example, on detection of a fire, smoke and/or increased ambient temperature, or by a user at the end of a working day), a brake (not shown) is released and the curtain weight 10 causes the curtains 100, 200 to move from the retracted to the deployed position. When in the deployed position, the flat-bottomed curtain weight 10 abuts the floor (not shown).

[00109] Each curtain 100, 200 is provided with sealing members that overlap with sealing members of the adjacent curtain. First curtain 100 comprises second sealing member (now shown) in the form of an elongate flap of fabric that extends along the length of first curtain 100. The flap is approximately 700mm wide. Second sealing member of first curtain 100 overlaps with second sealing member (not shown) of second curtain 200. Second sealing member of second curtain 200 is in the form of a flap that extends along the length of second curtain 200, and is approximately 700mm wide. While the arrangement of the overlapping second sealing members of the first and second curtains is not shown in Fig. 9, it is essentially the same as that shown in Fig. 8.

[00110] Overlapping flaps are configured so that increased air pressure that results from a fire urges the flaps into an enhanced sealing engagement with one another. This enhanced sealing engagement provides enhanced protection against the passage of smoke.

[00111] The example above demonstrates the use of flaps to form seals that inhibit passage therepast of smoke. Those skilled in the art will realise that such a seal is not a fluid-tight seal. Generally speaking, the seal is sufficient to conform to a respective regulation that governs such matters. For example, in the UK, BS EN 12101 defines the technical characteristics for a smoke barrier that is not fire resistant. If a barrier is to act as both a fire and smoke barrier then the barrier should conform with BS EN 8524-1 (relating to fire resistance) and BS EN 1634-3 (relating to smoke resistance for fire curtains).

[00112] Figure 10 shows part of another example of an embodiment of a smoke and fire barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Curtain edge portion 1006 of a first curtain 1000 is located in channel guide 1007, which guides the first curtain 1000 as it is deployed and/or retracted. Curtain edge portion 1006 is provided with a single (i.e. one and only one) elongate sealing flap 1008. Elongate sealing flap 1008 is made of a fabric material. Flap 1008 is attached to the respective edge portion 1006 of the first curtain 1000 by sewing, although those skilled in that art will realise that other means for attachment are possible. Sealing flap 1008 projects away from first side 1002 of first curtain 1000.

[00113] When the curtain 1000 is deployed and in a normal operating condition, flap 1008 is not in sealing engagement with channel guide 1007. Flap 1008 is configured so that increased air pressure that results from a fire urges the flap 1008 into sealing engagement with the end of leg 1110. This sealing engagement provides protection against the passage of smoke. Flap 1008 is urged into contact with the end of leg 1110 when there is a sufficient positive air pressure, such as occurs in the event of a fire.

[00114] Figure 11 shows part of another example of an embodiment of a smoke and fire barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention. First curtain 1100 is provided with second 1101 and third 1102 flaps, each of which projects away from a first side 1103 of first curtain 1100. Second flap 1101 overlaps with third flap 2102 provide on second curtain 2100, and third flap 1102 of first curtain 1100 overlaps with second flap 2101 of second curtain 2100. Second 2101 and third 2102 flaps of second curtain 2100 project away from first side 2103 of second curtain 2100. The overlapping flaps are not in sealing engagement with one another under normal operating conditions i.e. in the absence of a positive air pressure to urge the flaps into sealing engagement with one another. Overlapping flaps are urged into contact with each other when there is a sufficient positive air pressure, such as occurs in the event of a fire.

[00115] The region of overlap 300 between the first 1100 and second curtains 2100 is about 600mm.

[00116] Figures 12A and 12B shows part of another example of an embodiment of a smoke and fire barrier apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Figure 12A shows the smoke and fire barrier apparatus in a normal operating condition i.e. when there is no fire or change in pressure. Figure 12B shows the smoke and fire barrier apparatus in the event of a fire, in which an increased pressure moves the curtain, urging the curtain into a sealing configuration for inhibiting the passage of smoke therepast. Curtain edge portion 106 of a first curtain 100 is located in channel guide 607, which guides the first curtain 100 as it is deployed and/or retracted. Curtain edge portion 106 is provided with two elongate sealing flap 108a, 108b. Elongate sealing flaps 108a, 108b are made of a fabric material, the same material from which curtain 100 is made. Flaps 108a, 108b are attached to the respective edge portion 106 of the first curtain 100 by sewing, although those skilled in that art will realise that other means for attachment are possible. Sealing flaps 108a, 108b project away from first curtain 100.

[00117] When the curtain 100 is deployed and in a normal operating condition, flaps 108a, 108b are not in sealing engagement with channel guide 107. Referring to Fig. 7B, flap 108a is configured so that increased air pressure that results from a fire moves curtain 100 and urges the flap 108a into sealing engagement with foot 612a provided on the of leg 610a. Flap 108b is configured so that increased air pressure that results from a fire moves the curtain and urges the flap 108b into sealing engagement with foot 612b provided on the of leg 610b. Legs 610a, 610b form a passage 611 in which the end portion 106 of curtain 100 is located. The sealing engagement between the feet 612a, 612b and the respective flaps 108a, 108b provides protection against the passage of smoke. Flaps 108a, 108b are urged into contact with the respective feet 612a, 612b when there is a sufficient positive air pressure, such as occurs in the event of a fire.

[00118] Figure 13 shows a schematic cross-sectional end view through the apparatus of Figure 6, with two head box sealing members 701, 702 in sealing engagement with surfaces of the head box, inhibiting passage of smoke therepast. Roller 101 is located in a head box 700. Head box 700 is provided with two head box sealing members 701, 702 for forming a smoke-resistant seal against head box 700. Head box sealing members 701, 702 are formed from sheets of the material used to make curtain 100, and are attached to curtain 100, one on either side of curtain 100. Head box sealing members 701, 702 are attached to curtain 100 in such a way that passage of smoke is inhibited past the join between the head box sealing member and the curtain. When the curtain is in a raised position (not shown), the head box sealing members 701, 702 hang down, and are not in sealing engagement with the head box. As curtain 100 is lowered from a raised position into a deployed position, head box sealing members 701, 702 are urged into sealing engagement with a surface of the head box 700 to inhibit passage of smoke from one side of the curtain 100 to the other side of the curtain 100 through the head box 700. Head box sealing member 701 forms a seal with a surface of the head box 700 on a first side of curtain 100, and head box sealing member 702 forms a seal with a surface of the head box 700 on a second side of curtain 100.

[00119] Figure 14 shows a schematic cross-sectional end view through another example of an embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the present invention, with the head box sealing members 801, 802 in sealing engagement with surfaces of the head box, inhibiting passage of smoke therepast. Roller 101 is located in a head box 800. Head box 800 is provided with two head box sealing members 801, 802 for forming a smokeresistant seal against head box 800. Head box sealing members 801, 802 are formed from sheets of the material used to make curtain 100, and are attached to a first side of curtain 100. Head box sealing members 801, 802 are attached to curtain 100 in such a way that passage of smoke is inhibited past the join between the head box sealing member and the curtain. When the curtain is in a raised position (not shown), the head box sealing members 801, 802 and are not in sealing engagement with the head box. As curtain 100 is lowered from a raised position into a deployed position, head box sealing members 801, 802 are urged into sealing engagement with surfaces of the head box 800 to inhibit passage of smoke from one side of the curtain 100 to the other side of the curtain 100 through the head box 800. Head box sealing members 801, 802 are located on opposite sides of roller 101. Head box sealing member 801 forms a seal with a first surface 803 of head box 800, and head box sealing member 802 forms a seal with a second surface 804 of the head box 800. The first 803 and second 804 surfaces are opposite one another. The seals formed between the head box sealing members 801, 802 and the respective first 803 and second 804 head box surfaces, together with the attachment of the head box sealing members to the respective curtain inhibit passage of smoke therepast, but permit deployment and retraction of the curtain.

[00120] Figure 15 shows a schematic cross-sectional end view through another example of an embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the present invention, with head box sealing members in sealing engagement with respective surfaces of the head box. Roller 101 is located in a head box 900. Head box 900 is provided with four head box sealing members 901, 902, 903, 904 for forming smoke-resistant seals against head box 900. Head box sealing members 901, 902, 903, 904 are formed from sheets of the material used to make curtain 100, and are attached to curtain 100. Head box sealing members 901, 902, 903, 904 are attached to curtain 100 in such a way that passage of smoke is inhibited past the join between the head box sealing member and the curtain. When the curtain is in a raised position (not shown), the head box sealing members 901, 902, 903, 904 are not in sealing engagement with the head box. As curtain 100 is lowered from a raised position into a deployed position, head box sealing members 901, 902, 903, 904 form a seal with a respective surface of the head box 900 to inhibit passage of smoke from one side of the curtain 100 to the other side of the curtain 100 through the head box 900. In this connection, head box sealing members 901, 902 are located on opposite sides of curtain 100. When curtain 100 is lowered into a deployed position, head box sealing members 901, 902 are urged into sealing engagement with a surface of the head box 900.

[00121] In this apparatus, a second pair of head box sealing members are provided. In this connection, head box sealing members 903, 904 are located on opposite sides of roller 101. As curtain 100 is lowered from a raised position into a deployed position, head box sealing member 903 forms a seal with a first surface 905 of head box 900, and head box sealing member 904 forms a seal with a second surface 906 of head box 900. The first 905 and second 906 surfaces are opposite one another. The seals formed between the head box sealing members 901, 902, 903, 904 and the respective surfaces of the head box 900, together with the fact that the head box sealing members 901, 902, 903, 904 are attached to the curtain 100, lead to inhibition of the passage of smoke therepast, but permit deployment and retraction of the curtain.

[00122] In the apparatuses of Figures 13, 14 and 15, the head box sealing members are deployed and urged into engagement with the respective surfaces of the respective head box when the curtain is lowered into a deployed position. When the curtain is in a retracted, non-deploy ed position, the head box sealing members lie flat against the curtain and are rolled-up with the curtain.

[00123] The examples above describe a curtain in which the edge sealing members are not in sealing engagement with the respective channel guide surface under normal operating circumstances i.e. in the absence of a positive air pressure to urge the sealing member into sealing engagement with the respective channel guide surface. The sealing members are urged into contact with the respective guide channel surface or with each other when there is a sufficient positive air pressure, such as occurs in the event of a fire.

[00124] The examples above demonstrates the use of flaps to form seals that inhibit passage therepast of smoke. Those skilled in the art will realise that such a seal is not a fluid-tight seal. Generally speaking, the seal is sufficient to conform to a respective regulation that governs such matters. For example, in the UK, BS EN 12101 defines the technical characteristics for a smoke barrier that is not fire resistant. If a barrier is to act as both a fire and smoke barrier then the barrier should conform with BS EN 8524-1 (relating to fire resistance) and BS EN 1634-3 (relating to smoke resistance for fire curtains).

[00125] Whilst the present invention has been described and illustrated with reference to particular embodiments, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention lends itself to many different variations not specifically illustrated herein. By way of example only, certain possible variations will now be described.

[00126] The examples described above describe various fire and smoke barrier apparatuses. Those skilled in the art will realise that the barrier may be a smoke barrier. A smoke barrier would typically conform to regulations pertaining to the passage of smoke therepast, but would not necessarily conform to regulations pertaining to the inhibition of heat or fire therepast. A fire barrier would typically conform to such regulations.

[00127] Where in the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the present invention, which should be construed so as to encompass any such equivalents. It will also be appreciated by the reader that integers or features of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that such optional integers or features, whilst of possible benefit in some embodiments of the invention, may not be desirable, and may therefore be absent, in other embodiments.