Abstract: A window blind assembly is provided for use with a roller blind. The assembly comprises a charging element; a retaining element; and an energy storage system operatively connected therebetween. The energy storage system comprises a plurality of springs and the charging system is adapted to rotate relative to the retaining element such that the energy storage system is charged upon closure of the blind and the stored energy is released during the opening of the blind, whereby the opening of the blind is assisted by the release of the stored energy from the energy storage system. The springs are connected in series such that they are axially spaced from each other and adjacent ends of the springs are connected together via a connector located therebetween, wherein the adjacent ends of the springs are each coupled to a respective end of the connector and rotation of one spring relative to the other is prevented.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved pleated blind in which the distance between alternate folds is constrained so as to present a more pleasing appearance when the blind is unfolded. In one embodiment of the invention there is provided a connecting member 50 which is flexibly connected to alternate fold lines of a blind of sheet element 16. The flexible securement is provided by a plurality of I-section tags 52, each having a centre section 54 and cross pieces 56, 58 at each end thereof.