Method of applying a transparent foil material on a gable roof of a greenhouse, greenhouse and profile elements for such a greenhouse

Abstract

Described is a method of applying a transparent foil (10) material on a gable roof of an A-frame greenhouse wherein a foil is positioned onto the roof while the widow frames (6) of the greenhouse are in an open position close to or over the horizontal position and the foil being folded longitudinally and symmetrically around the longitudinal middle line thereof, the foil being unfolded after being engaged with the ridge profile of the greenhouse and fixed to the gutter profiles (2), whereafter the widow frames can be set in a lower open position and the foil is cut longitudinally through the window opening, and the cutting edges of the foil being fixed to the lower window profile and the intermediate profile, which operations can be performed from the interior of the greenhouse. Further, a greenhouse and specific profiles are described.

Description

[0001] METHOD OF APPLYING A TRANSPARENT FOIL MATERIAL ON A GABLE ROOF OF A GREENHOUSE, GREENHOUSE AND PROFILE ELEMENTS FOR SUCH A GREENHOUSE

[0002] The invention relates to an improved method of applying a transparent foil material on a gable roof of a greenhouse, greenhouse and profile elements for such a greenhouse.

[0003] The improved method involves applying a transparent foil material on a gable roof of a greenhouse, wherein the gable roof comprises a roof frame including two gutter profiles, a ridge profile and two intermediate profiles extending parallel to each other, wherein the intermediate profiles are located between the ridge profile and the respective gutter profiles, wherein at either side of the ridge profile the gutter profile, the ridge profile and the intermediate profile are interconnected through lateral frame beams extending in transverse direction of said profiles, the roof frame having a lateral circumference defined by the distance between the top of the ridge profile and the two gutter profiles, wherein the roof also comprises two window frames, located at either side of the ridge profile, each window frame having an upper window profile which is hingeably connected with the roof frame and rotatable with respect to the ridge profile about a pivot axis extending in longitudinal direction parallel to the ridge profile and a lower window profile located at a distance from the upper window profile, wherein each window frame is rotatable between a closed position in which the lower window profile lies at the intermediate profile and open positions, the open positions being limited to an open end position, in which open positions the lower window profile lies at a distance from the intermediate profile above the intermediate profile.

[0004] Such greenhouses are known in the art, such as wide-span greenhouses, and e.g. “Venlo-type” greenhouses, both having a so-called A-frame as defined above. Venlo-type greenhouses have a span width of 3 - 5 metres whereas the broad span greenhouse has widths of 9 - 13 metres or even more. The height of the gutters for Venlo-type greenhouses is usually 4 to 7 metres, for wide-span greenhouses this is usually 4 - 6 metres. The height of the ridge is however significantly more for a wide-span greenhouse as compared to a Venlo-type greenhouse with the same gutter height. As a result, the wide-span greenhouses have more internal space, which is beneficial for the climate within the greenhouse.

[0005] EP3626047 describes a method for applying a transparent foil on the gable roof of a greenhouse of the above type, wherein the two window frames are positioned in their open position, resulting in both windows to lie in the same horizontal plane. A piece of foil is laid on the opened window frames and stretched in longitudinal direction, whereafter the foil is fixed at the lower window profiles. All these operational steps are performed from the exterior of the greenhouse. To this end, EP3626047 proposes mobile bridge like constructions for laying and installing the foil having wheels that roll on the gutter profiles. These constructions span over the roof and move in longitudinal direction over the roof, allowing operator that are on these constructions to lay and fix the foil. In order to work under windy conditions, the foil is stretched in a longitudinal direction. However, working on such a height requires safety measures and the gutter profiles need to be adapted for receiving the weight of the constructions and to allow longitudinal movement of the said constructions over the gutter profiles.

[0006] Further, for the roof portions below the windows, separate pieces of foil need to be provided that are fixed in a separate action. The method as disclosed in EP326047 is therefore complicated, expensive and comes with high safety risks.

[0007] The invention now provides an improved method for applying foil on the roof of a greenhouse of the above type that provides a solution to one or more of the above problems, and allows positioning and fixing the foil from the interior of the greenhouse, i.e. without the necessity for the operators to be on the constructions outside on the roof. Further, the improved method provides a single piece of foil covering the complete roof frame of the greenhouse, e.g., from the ridge to both gutter profiles adjacent thereto, providing faster installation and less susceptibility to weather conditions, without the need to stretch the foil in longitudinal direction. Thereto, the method comprises the steps of: a) providing the foil material having a length and a width, the width of the foil material exceeding the lateral circumference of the roof frame 1), the width being limited by a first and a second longitudinal edge that extend substantially parallel opposite to one another, the foil having a middle line extending longitudinally at equal distance between the longitudinal edges of the foil, dividing the foil in a first and a second longitudinal portion respectively, the first and second longitudinal portions being folded towards the middle line at least once over first and second folding lines, respectively, extending substantially parallel to the middle line, defining a first folded section and a second folded section, the foil having a folded width defined by the largest distance between the first and second folding lines; b) positioning the window frames an open position; c) positioning the foil in folded condition onto the roof frame by engaging the foil at the position of the middle line thereof, with the ridge profile; d) unfolding the foil (10), allowing the foil (10) to extend towards the gutter profiles (2); e) fixing the foil (10) at the first and second longitudinal edges thereof (LE1 , LE2) to the two gutter profiles (2) respectively; f) when in engagement with the ridge profile (3) and when the window frames (6) are in the open position, cutting the foil (10) longitudinally between the lower window profile (8) and the intermediate profile (4), creating a cutting edge (CE) dividing the foil (10) in an upper foil section (US) and a lower foil section (LS); g) fixing the upper foil section (US) at the cutting edge (CE) thereof to the lower window profile (8); and h) fixing the lower foil section (LS) at the cutting edge (CE) thereof, at the intermediate profile (4).

[0008] The foil is provided in a folded manner, wherein the foil is folded longitudinally from both longitudinal sides towards its middle line, resulting in two adjacent folded sections that extend parallel to one another without crossing the middle line. By providing the foil in this manner, the width of the foil is significantly reduced and makes it possible to conveniently position the foil on the roof frame even at windy conditions without the need to stretch the foil in longitudinal direction before fixing to the frame. The width of the foil can be further reduced by folding the folded sections again towards the middle line. As a result, the foil becomes multi-layered with a limited width in folded condition and has sufficient width in unfolded condition to cover the complete roof frame, i.e. from the ridge profile towards both adjacent gutter profiles, herein defined as the lateral circumference of the roof frame. Such folded foil is described in US4,795,415.

[0009] The width of the foil exceeds that of the lateral circumference of the roof frame to allow fixing of the foil to the frame as will be explained below. Attractively, the width of the foil can be between 6 and 13 m.

[0010] The folded sections do not overlap one another beyond the middle line, therewith rendering the foil at the middle line accessible, which becomes advantageous for positioning of the foil on the roof frame.

[0011] Positioning of the foil on the roof frame involves engagement of the foil at the position of the middle line thereof, with the ridge profile. This engaging can comprise the foil, along the middle line thereof, being supported by the ridge profile, or e.g. being fixed thereto, such as by the use of clamping profiles, known in the art, wherein the ridge profile comprises a receiving slit which is covered by the foil, whereafter a snugly fitting clamping profile is pressed into the said slit.

[0012] The foil can be positioned over the complete length of the roof frame before being fixed laterally, preferably with the folds faces up. The foil can e.g. be slid from one longitudinal edge of the roof frame towards the other longitudinal end thereof, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0013] Since the folded sections do not overlap one another beyond the middle line, the foil is accessible in order to accommodate the foil in a longitudinal space in the ridge profile e.g. by bulging into the said space or by being clamped therein by snugly fitting clamping profiles. More advantageous ways of engaging the foil with the ridge profile are given below.

[0014] Although the foil can be folded such, that the folded sections overlap one another at the position of the middle line, the positioning of the foil on the ridge profile is facilitated when both first and second folded sections do not extend over the middle line so as not to overlap with one another. According to this embodiment, the folded sections may abut one another at the middle line. The foil can also be folded such, that a middle portion along the middle line is left free, e.g., single layered, without a fold section on top thereof. Thereto, the folded sections preferably extend towards the middle line of the foil, but keeping a certain distance therefrom. This provides a folded foil having a single layered longitudinal strip portion extending from the middle line to both to both sides of the foil. When positioning the foil on the frame, this single layered strip portion can conveniently be engaged with the ridge profile. At this single layered strip section, the foil can be accommodated conveniently in the longitudinal space in the ridge profile as explained above. Preferably, engagement of the foil with the ridge profile results in fixing of the foil to the ridge profile.

[0015] A very suitable transparent foil for use in the method of the invention is made of polyethylene, which is a stable polymeric material, retaining tension over time. It has good transient properties to UV along with thermal insulation capabilities. Other suitable materials are known to the skilled person, such as e.g., ETFE (ethylene-tetrafluoro-ethylene). However, fluorinated plastics are less preferred in view of environmental problems.

[0016] In order to support the foil when positioned on the roof frame, the window frames are positioned in an open position. In wide-span and Venlo-type greenhouses, a window frame extends parallel to the ridge profile and is hingeably connected to the roof frame. The window frame can therefore hinge between a fully open position, herein also the open end position, and a closed position wherein the window frame rests on the roof frame. Between these end positions, the window can be set in an open position, usually a plurality of open positions, or stepless between both end positions. The window frames are preferably set in an open position wherein the window frames are opened to a horizontal position, or to a position wherein the lower window profile is at a slightly higher position as the ridge profile. In such a position, the foil is properly held with the middle line substantially lying on the ridge element without the risk of sliding away. The foil material has a width that allows the longitudinal edges thereof to extend and arrive to the gutter profiles so as to allow fixation of the foil to the gutter profiles while the roof frames are still in the open position in the step of positioning the foil onto the roof frame. This additional width of the foil is used in a later step to fix the foil at the lower window profile and the intermediate profile.

[0017] Afterthe foil is engaged with the ridge profile, the foil is unfolded, resting on the opened window frames, and the lateral edges are fixed to the gutter profiles. This can be done in a way known in the art, e.g., by providing a continuous longitudinal receiving slit in the gutter profiles, allowing the foil the be accommodated therein and fixing the foil with a clamping profile that snugly fits in the slit. The window frames are preferably positioned in the envisaged open position before unfolding and fixing the foil to the gutter elements, but this can also be done between unfolding of the foil and fixation thereof to the gutter elements, or after both unfolding and fixation of the foil. However, in order to avoid any sliding away of the foil during positioning thereof on the roof frame, the window frames are preferably opened before the foil is positioned on the roof frame.

[0018] During the process of fixation of the unfolded foil at the gutter profiles, the foil preferably becomes tightly held between either the ridge profile, the lower window profile and the gutter profile, or between the two gutter profiles at both sides of the ridge profile, the two lower window profiles at both sides of the ridge profile and the ridge profile in case the engagement of the foil with the ridge element does not sufficiently fix the foil to the said ridge profile. However, it is also possible to have some slack between the foil and the roof frame.

[0019] This allows working at windy conditions without the risk of the foil being blown away and still allowing the fixation of the foil to be done from the inside of the greenhouse.

[0020] After the above process of opening of the window frames, unfolding of the foil and fixation of the foil at the gutter profiles, the foil is cut longitudinally between the lower window profile and the intermediate profile, the cut preferably being made substantially parallel to the ridge profile. By this cut, the foil is divided by the cutting edge in an upper foil section, extending from the ridge to the lower window profile, and a lower foil section, extending from the gutter profile to the intermediary profile. Preferably, the cutting is preceded or followed by a step of lowering the window frames to a less open position towards the intermediate profile, i.e., to provide a distance between the lower window profile and the intermediate profile that allows sufficient space for an operator to grab the cutting edges of the foil and to pull these inward over the said lower window profile and intermediate profile, respectively. An attractive distance between the lower window profile and intermediate profile is 30 to 60 cm, preferably 40 - 50 cm. By lowering the window frames towards the intermediate profile, the free cutting edges of the foil provide for a sufficient width to allow pulling the upper and lower foil sections over the lower window profile and the intermediate profile, respectively. An extra width of 15 cm for both sides allows for convenient pulling of the foil inwardly. Further, lowering the window frame to a lower open position allows the operator to reach the lower window profile in a significant more conveniently way as compared to a horizontal open position, where the operator must reach out significantly further in order to grab and pull the cutting edge of the upper foil section over the lower window profile.

[0021] After the cut, the upper foil section is fixed to the lower window profile, and the lower section is fixed to the intermediate profile. Both cutting and fixing of both upper and lower foil sections can be done on the outside of the roof frame, but preferably, the foil is cut or and fixed to the lower window profile and the intermediate profile from the interior of the greenhouse. The open position of the window frame provides space for the operator to reach and cut the foil from the interior of the greenhouse, and as explained above, the upper and lower foil sections have a sufficient width to allow fixing to the lower window profile and the intermediate profile, respectively. Fixing of the foil to the lower window bean and the intermediate profile can be done as known in the art, e.g., as described above by accommodating the foil in a continuous longitudinal slit within the said beam or profile and fixing the foil to the beam or profile by snugly fitting a clamping profile in the slit. Attractively, the upper foil section is stretched after being fixed to the lower window profile. Such stretching can e.g. take place by arranging spanner elements in the window frame so as to move the lower window profile away form the upper window profile, e.g. by elongating lateral window profiles that interconnect the upper and power window profiles.

[0022] Similarly, the lower foil section is preferably stretched after being fixed to the intermediate profile. Such stretching can e.g. take place by arranging spanner elements in the lateral from beams so as to move the intermediate profile away form the gutter profile, e.g. by elongating lateral frame beams that interconnect the intermediate profiles and gutter profile.

[0023] The foil can be folded towards the middle line once and preferably has a plurality of folds, wherein the first and second longitudinal portion of the foil are folded over a plurality of first and second folding lines respectively, extending parallel and distanced from each other. After being folded once, i.e., when the first and second longitudinal portions are both folded towards the middle line of the foil, the folded portions can be folded again, until the envisaged folded width is obtained. The envisaged width depends e.g. on the dimensions of the greenhouse and the foil material used, such as the thickness thereof. In a particular embodiment, the foil originated from tube foil that is laid flat and one layer being cut over the middle line of the flat foil, therewith providing a foil as described above being folded once. Both folded section are preferable folded once more towards the middle line over another first and second folding line, respectively. Attractively, a foil having an overall width of 6 - 13 m may have, in folded condition, a width of 2.5 - 3.5 m, comprising three first and second folding lines, respectively.

[0024] In an attractive embodiment, the folded width of the foil is 80 - 120 % of the sum of the distance between both lower window profiles and the ridge profile. Since the upper window profiles usually are mounted to the ridge profile, the sum of the distance between both lower window profiles and the ridge profile then corresponds to twice the length of the window frame. When positioning the foil on the roof frame, the foil can then be held by the window frame before being unfolded without the risk of sliding away.

[0025] In order to allow convenient fixing of the upper foil section to the lower window profile when working from the interior of the greenhouse, the lower window profile preferably comprises first foil fixing means for fixing the upper foil section, the first foil fixing means being located at a side of the said profile facing to the interior of the greenhouse. Such first foil fixing means can e.g. be designed as an open continuous slit, extending longitudinally over the profile, in particular over the full length thereof. By providing the first foil fixing means facing to the interior of the greenhouse, an operator can fix the upper foil section from the inside of the greenhouse.

[0026] Similarly, the intermediate profile preferably comprises second foil fixing means for fixing the lower foil section, the second foil fixing means being located at a side of the said profile facing to the interior of the greenhouse.

[0027] In a very attractive embodiment, the foil is engaged with the ridge element, wherein the ridge profile comprises an upper chamber extending longitudinally over the ridge profile, for accommodating a drawstring therein, the upper chamber comprising an upper longitudinal opening, extending over the length of the profile, the opening being narrower than the chamber, so as to prohibit the string to exit the chamber through the opening, the opening being wider than twice the thickness of the foil. Such a ridge element allows the foil to be fed in chamber, either by bulging into the longitudinal opening, or by feeding the foil, in folded condition, at the location of the middle line thereof, from an open end of the ridge profile along the longitudinal chamber towards the other end of the ridge profile. In order to facilitate the foil feeding and to prohibit the foil leaving the chamber, the chamber is fed with a drawstring, that is surrounded by the foil, resulting in the foil being fed into the chamber while surrounding the drawstring. By drawing the drawstring, the foil is conveniently fed into the longitudinal chamber, without the risk that the foil escapes from the chamber when the diameter of the drawstring is more then the width of the longitudinal opening. The longitudinal opening preferably extends over the full length of the ridge profile so as to allow the foil to extend therefrom while being held and fixed in the chamber by the drawstring.

[0028] In a particular embodiment of the method of the invention, the foil is engaged with such a ridge element, wherein the step of engaging the foil element with the ridge element comprises the steps of:

[0029] - connecting one end of the drawstring, having a diameter of more than the opening of the chamber with a tensile lace, having a diameter of less then the opening;

[0030] - placing the tensile lace in the chamber;

[0031] - combining the foil with the drawstring by wrapping the foil around the drawstring, the middle line of the foil being parallel to and abutting the drawstring and

[0032] - feeding, from the first longitudinal edge of the ridge profile, the drawstring combined with the foil into the chamber so as to be surrounded by the foil, allowing the foil to protrude from the chamber to the exterior through the opening of the chamber;

[0033] - moving the drawstring towards the opposite second longitudinal edge of the ridge profile by either pulling of the tensile lace or the drawstring towards the second opposite edge of the ridge profile.

[0034] By connecting the drawstring to the tensile lace, the drawstring can be drawn into the longitudinal chamber of the ridge element by laying the tensile lace in the chamber and pulling the drawstring into the chamber from one end thereof towards the other end. While being pulled through the chamber the two folded sections protrude outward from the said chamber and can be laid to both opposite sides of the roof frame towards the gutter profiles. The movement of the foil towards the other end of the ridge profile can be further accomplished by either drawing the tensile lace of the drawstring (when facing out of the other end of the chamber). During and after moving the foil through the chamber of the ridge element, no longitudinal stretching takes place.

[0035] The foil is unfolded preferably after the foil is accommodated over the full length of the ridge profile. However, it is also possible to already commence to unfold the foil upstream of the position of the edge of the foil being pulled through the chamber.

[0036] In a particular embodiment, the greenhouse comprises uprights, the top portion thereof being fixedly connected with lattice beams extending substantially horizontally and perpendicular to the ridge profile, the uprights and lattice beams supporting the roof frame and an interior roof space being defined as the space limited by the roof frame and the lattice beams, the greenhouse further comprising, in the interior roof space, one or more rail elements, extending parallel to the ridge profile, allowing an operator to be positioned thereon to fix the upper foil section to the lower window profile and the lower foil section at the intermediate profile while being in the said interior space. A usual wide-span or Venlo-type greenhouse comprises such uprights and lattice beams. By the presence of rail elements, a trolly or working platform can move over the rail elements in longitudinal direction, parallel to the ridge profile, from the one end to the other end of the greenhouse, giving space to an operator that can perform the steps of the method of the invention from the inside of the greenhouse, in particular from the roof space as defined above, and to perform maintenance work to the roof section of the greenhouse without the need to disturb the further interior of the greenhouse. In particular, the greenhouse comprises a wheeled moving platform, carried by and moveable over the rail elements. KR20180028794 describes a greenhouse, comprising in the ridge area a workbench, allowing service personnel to perform maintenance and repair work on ventilation, installed on the ceiling of the greenhouse.

[0037] In a further aspect, the invention provides a greenhouse comprising a gable roof as defined above, comprising a transparent foil material, applied according to the method of the invention as described above. In particular, the invention relates to a greenhouse comprising a gable roof, the gable roof comprising a roof frame including two gutter profiles, a ridge profile and two intermediate profiles extending parallel to each other, wherein the intermediate profiles are located between the ridge profile and the respective gutter profiles, wherein at either side of the ridge profile the gutter profile, the ridge profile and the intermediate profile are interconnected through lateral frame beams extending in transverse direction of said profiles, the roof frame having a lateral circumference defined by the distance between the top of the ridge profile and the two gutter profiles, wherein the roof also comprises two window frames, located at either side of the ridge profile, each window frame having an upper window profile which is hingeably connected with the roof frame and rotatable with respect to the ridge profile about a pivot axis extending in longitudinal direction of the ridge profile and a lower window profile located at a distance from the upper window profile, wherein each window frame is rotatable between a closed position in which the lower window profile lies at the intermediate profile and open positions, the open positions being limited to an open end position, in which open positions the lower window profile lies at a distance from the intermediate profile above the intermediate profile, wherein the lower window profile comprises first foil fixing means for fixing the upper foil section which first foil fixing means are located at a side of the said beam facing to the interior of the greenhouse, the roof of the greenhouse being covered with transparent foil material, the said foil material comprising a longitudinally extending upper foil section and a longitudinally extending lower foil section, the upper foil section laterally extending from the ridge profile to the lower window profile and being engaged with the ridge profile and fixed to the lower window profile at the first foil fixing means thereof, the lower foil section laterally extending from the intermediate profile to the gutter profile and being fixed to the intermediate profile and the gutter profile.

[0038] Such a greenhouse is intended for performing the method of the invention, wherein the foil is on the outside of the window frame, and fixed on the inside of the lower window profile. This means that the foil is wrapped around the lower window profile from the outside towards the inside, where the foil is fixed.

[0039] In another embodiment, the greenhouse comprises second foil fixing means for fixing the lower foil section that are located at a side of the said profile facing to the interior space of the greenhouse, the lower foil section being fixed to the intermediate profile at the fixing means thereof.

[0040] The foil is on the outside extending from the gutter profile upward to the intermediate profile and them fixed on the inside of the intermediate profile. This means that the foil is wrapped around the intermediate profile from the outside towards the inside, where the foil is fixed.

[0041] Such a greenhouse allows for being covered with foil from the inside of the greenhouse.

[0042] In a particular embodiment, the first foil fixing means of the lower window profile and / or the second foil fixing means of the intermediate profile comprise a first and second foil fixing chamber, respectively, extending over the length of the respective profile, the first and second foil fixing chamber comprising a longitudinal opening, extending over the length of the profile, the longitudinal opening being narrower than the chamber, the foil being fixed in the respective foil fixing chamber, e.g., by being clamped therein by snugly fitting clamping profiles. Preferably, the ridge profile of the greenhouse of the invention comprises an upper chamber for accommodating a drawstring therein, the upper chamber comprising an upper longitudinal opening, extending over the length of the profile, the opening being narrower than the chamber, so as to prohibit the drawstring to exit the chamber through the opening, the opening being wider than twice the thickness of the foil, the upper foil section being engaged with and fixed to the ridge profile by being wrapped around the drawstring, accommodated in the upper chamber. As described above, such a greenhouse comprises the foil fixed to the ridge profile by being fed using a drawstring without stretching the foil in longitudinal direction, providing the roof section of the greenhouse with a foil being fixed thereto, while being possible to work from the inside.

[0043] In an attractive embodiment, the lower window profile comprises an upper side facing towards the exterior of the greenhouse, an opposite lower side facing to the interior of the roof space of the greenhouse, a transverse side between the upper side and lower side, the transverse side facing the ridge profile, and a curved side opposite the traverse side and facing away from the ridge profile, the curved side providing a curved surface extending from the upper side downward to and abutting with the lower side the lower window profile, the upper foil section lying against the curved surface of the curved side. Accordingly, the lower edge of the lower window profile of the greenhouse of the invention, facing to the exterior curves inwardly towards the side facing the interior roof space of the greenhouse. By the presence of such a curved surface, the upper foil section is conveniently wrapped around the lower window profile, stretched in lateral direction and fixed to the lower window profile at the lower side thereof. The lower side of the lower window profile comprises the first foil fixing means, in particular in the form of a foil fixing chamber as explained above.

[0044] Similarly, the intermediate profile comprises an upper side facing towards the exterior of the greenhouse, an opposite lower side facing the interior of the greenhouse, a transverse side between the upper side and lower side, the transverse side facing the gutter profile, and a curved side opposite the traverse side and facing away from the gutter profile, the curved side providing a curved surface extending from the upper side downward to and abutting with the lower side of the intermediate profile, the lower foil section lying against the curved surface of the curved side. By the presence of such a curved surface, the lower foil section is conveniently wrapped around the intermediate profile and stretched in lateral direction and fixed to the intermediate profile at the lower side thereof. The lower side of the intermediate profile comprises the second foil fixing means, in particular in the form of a foil fixing chamber as explained above.

[0045] In another embodiment, the lower window profile of the greenhouse further comprises water seal fixing means for fixing water sealing means, which water seal fixing means are at the side of the said profile facing to the interior of the greenhouse, the greenhouse comprising a water seal, fixed to the lower window profile at the water seal fixing means thereof. The water seal fixing means can be designed as an open chamber extending longitudinally over the lower window profile, e.g., parallel to the continuous slit for fixing the foil upper foil section. The said chamber can accommodate a rubber seal element, such as a rubber tube, snugly fitted in the said chamber, while bulging out through the opening of the said chamber, or the like.

[0046] In order to allow application of the foil and maintenance within the interior roof space of the greenhouse of the invention and to perform the method of the invention form the interior of the greenhouse, the greenhouse of the invention comprises uprights, the top portion thereof being fixedly connected with lattice beams extending substantially horizontally and perpendicular to the ridge profile, the uprights and lattice beams supporting the roof frame and an interior roof space being defined as the space limited by the roof frame and the lattice beams, the greenhouse further comprising in the interior roof space, one or more rail elements, extending parallel to the ridge profile, enabling a working platform to be moved over the said rail elements, allowing an operator to be positioned thereon to fix the upper foil section to the lower window profile and the lower foil section at the intermediate profile while being in the said interior space. The one or more rail elements are preferably mounted on the lattice beams.

[0047] The invention further relates to a lower window profile and to an intermediate profile as described herein, the profile comprising an upper side, an opposite lower side, a transverse side between the upper side and lower side, and a curved side opposite the traverse side, the curved side providing a curved surface extending from the upper side toward and abutting the lower side of the profile, the lower side comprising a first longitudinal chamber, extending over the length of the profile for fixing a foil material therein. The curved side preferably provides a continuous curved surface extending over the length of the profile. Such a continuously curves surface is void of any longitudinal chamber or other fixing means, allowing a foil to be snugly stretched along the curved surface, and lying against the said surface while being fixed to the profile in the first longitudinal chamber thereof.

[0048] The profile preferably comprises, at the lower side thereof a second longitudinal chamber, extending over the length of the profile for fixing water sealing means therein. Said second longitudinal chamber runs parallel to the first chamber, the first chamber extending between the second chamber and the position where the curved side abuts the lower side. There may be provided a third longitudinal chamber, e.g. for fixing a mosquito net to the profile.

[0049] The curvature of the curved side of the profile is attractively designed such, that the lower side of the profile comprises and extended end portion, extending beyond the upper side over a length L, the curved side providing a curved surface extending from the upper side towards and abutting the lower side at the extended end portion. According to this embodiment, the upper side is shorter than the lower side, the curvature, i.e., the curved side, covering the length difference between the upper and lower side. A smooth curved surface is obtained, over which the foil can be guided to be fixed at the lower side of the profile. Accordingly, the said surface may, in cross section, e.g. describe a portion of a circle or an ellipsoid, in particular a single circular or ellipsoid portion extending from the upper side to and abutting the lower side of the profile.

[0050] Attractively, one or more from the upper side, transverse side and the lower side comprises an additional longitudinal chamber extending over the length of the profile. Such chambers may be used for fixation of the profile within the greenhouse frame, e.g., by connecting with lateral frame beams.

[0051] The first longitudinal chamber, and preferably any additional chamber present in the profile, preferably extend over the full length of the profile in a continuous manner.

[0052] Any of the longitudinal chambers as discussed above preferably comprises a longitudinal opening or slit extending over the length of the profile the longitudinal opening or slit being narrower than the chamber. Such a design provides a convenient way of mounting, e.g. by positioning nuts in the chamber and allowing a bolt to extend through the opening or slit to be fastened with the nut present in the chamber. In particular, hammerhead nuts can be used that can enter the opening or slit, but cannot turn within the chamber. Such a chamber can e.g. be provided at the transverse side of the profile, allowing fixation of the profile with a lateral frame beam. Such an opening or slit will also secure fastening of a rubber lace or tube within the second longitudinal chamber, serving as water seal. The invention will now be further exemplified by the following figures, wherein: Figure 1 is a schematic view of a greenhouse of the invention.

[0053] Figure 2 is a side view of the greenhouse of figure 1

[0054] Figure 3 is a foil for application on the greenhouse of figure 1 in unfolded condition. Figure 4 is the foil of figure 2, once folded towards the middle line thereof.

[0055] Figure 5 is a schematic view of a foil roll for application on the greenhouse of figure 1 .

[0056] Figure 6 shows the steps of the method of the invention

[0057] Figure 7 is a cross-section of a lower window profile of the greenhouse of figure 1 . Figure 8 is a cross-section of an intermediate profile of the greenhouse of figure 1. Figure 9 is a ridge profile of the greenhouse of figure 1.

[0058] Figure 10 is a working platform for performing the method of the invention.

[0059] Figure 1 shows a greenhouse wide-span greenhouse G having a gable roof R, comprising a roof frame

[0060] 1 . The roof frame has an upper ridge profile 3 and a gutter profile 2 at either side thereof at the lower edges of the roof frame, defining two opposite roof surfaces extending from the gutter profile 3 to the gutter profiles

[0061] 2. The gutter profiles and the ridge profile run in longitudinal direction parallel to one another. At either side of the ridge profile 3, between the gutter profiles 2 and the ridge profile 3, intermediate profiles 4 extend parallel to one another. The gutter profile 2, the ridge profile 3 and the intermediate profile 4 are interconnected through lateral frame beams 5 extending in transverse direction of said profiles 2, 3 and 4. The frame beams define the slope of the roof surface, here about 25° to the horizontal. The roof R also comprises two window profiles 6, located at either side of the ridge profile 3. Each window frame has an upper window profile 7 which is hingeably connected with the roof frame and rotatable with respect to the ridge profile 3 about a pivot axis PA extending in longitudinal direction parallel to the ridge profile 3. Usually, the window frame 6 is directly connected to the ridge profile though hinges mounted on the ridge profile 3 and to the upper window profile 7. The window frame 6 has a lower window profile 8, at a distance of and opposite to the upper window profile 7. The window frame 6 is rotatable between a closed position in which the lower window profile 8 lies at the intermediate profile 4 and open positions, the open positions being limited to an open end position, in which open positions the lower window profile 8 lies at a distance from the intermediate profile 4 above the intermediate profile 4. Here, the window frames are slightly opened, wherein the lower window profiles are distanced from, but close to the intermediate profiles 4. Positioning rods 9 are mounted to the window frames 6, allowing the window frames to be positioned in a plurality of open positions, by engaging with the lateral frame beams 5 of the roof frame 1 , e.g. in a sliding manner. The open end position of the window frame 6 is then defined by the lower end of the rod 9. The length of the rods 9 is usually chosen such, that the open end position of the roof frame 6 allows a position wherein the lower window profile 8 is at a position that is higher than that of the ridge profile 3.

[0062] Further, the greenhouse G comprises uprights 18, the top portion thereof being fixedly connected with lattice beams 17 extending substantially horizontally and perpendicular to the ridge profile 3. The uprights 18 and lattice beams 17 support the roof frame 1. Rail elements 14 are mounted on the lattice beams 17, and extend longitudinally from the one end face of the greenhouse to the other. These rail elements carry a working platform 15, that can be moved over the said rail elements 14. The working platform provides a working space for an operator 16, that can reach through the opening between the window frame 6 and the intermediate profile 4 to fix the foil to the lower window profile 8 and the intermediate profile while working from the interior of the greenhouse G, in particular from an interior roof space, defined as the space limited by the roof frame and the lattice beams. The working platform also allows the operator to perform maintenance and repair on the greenhouse, in particular the roof, without the need for intervening in the interior space of the greenhouse below the lattice beams, allowing full continuation of the processes taking place therein and without interfering with plant growth etc.

[0063] Figure 2 shows a front view of the greenhouse G, wherein the features that have already been described in figure 1 have the same reference numbers. Here, the window frame is opened in a wider opened position, wherein the lower window profile 8 is at a slightly higher position than ridge profile 3. In this opened position of the window frame, the plastic foil can be positioned on the roof frame while being supported thereby, without the risk of sliding away from the roof frame downward. The lateral circumference is defined by the distance between the top of the ridge profile 3 and the two gutter profiles 2, i.e. the distance from B to C to D.

[0064] Figure 3 shows a portion of foil 10 in unfolded, i.e., open position. The foil has a length L that can correspond with the length of the greenhouse on which the foil is to be applied. The foil has a width W, limited by first and second longitudinal edges LE1 and LE2, respectively. The foil 10 has a middle line ML extending longitudinally at equal distance between the longitudinal edges LE1 , LE2 of the foil 10, dividing the foil 10 in a first and a second longitudinal portion LP1 , LP2 respectively. In folded position, the longitudinal portions LP1 and LP2 are folded towards the middle line ML along folding lines FL1 and FL2, defining a first folded section FS1 and a second folded section FS2, respectively, that run parallel to the middle line ML, as shown in Figure 4. The folding lines FL1 and FL2 are positioned such, that upon folding, the folded sections FS1 , FS2 do not extend over the middle line ML. To that end, the folding lines FL1 , FL2 are spaced from the middle line ML by at least half the distance between the middle line and the respective lateral edge LE1 , LE2.

[0065] Figure 5 shows a foil 10, folded over three first and three second folding lines, symmetrical to the middle line ML. The foil is provided as a roll 1 1 and has a width that exceeds the lateral circumference of the greenhouse on which the foil is to be applied.

[0066] Figure 6 shows the different steps of the method of the invention. In figure 6A, the window frames 6 are positioned as described in figure 2. Foil 10, folded as in figure 5 is positioned on the opened window frames 6, allowing the middle line of the foil to be engaged with the ridge profile 3. The folded sections are limited by folding lines FL1 B and FL2B as shown in figure 5. The folds are not shown. In figure 6B, the foil 10 is fixed to the ridge element 3, for example by clamping means as described above, shown by a black dot. However, it is preferred to feed the foil, starting from the one end face of the greenhouse, in folded condition over the window frames, while simultaneously engaging the foil, preferably in a confining manner with the ridge element, e.g., by pulling the foil together with a drawstring trough an upper chamber having an upper longitudinal opening, as will be explained for figure 8. It is also possible to allow the foil to rest on the window frame, with the middle line ML of the foil 10 resting on the ridge profile 3. Here, the foil has, in folded position, the same width WL as the distance between the two opposite lower window profiles 8. It is however also possible that the foil has a smaller or a larger width, resulting in either not extending to the lower window profiles completely, or in caser the width is larger, to form an overhang over the said lower wind profiles 8. The width is preferable 80 - 120% of the distance between the opposite lower window beams, i.e., of the sum of the distance between both lower window profiles 8 and the ridge profile 3. More preferably, the width of the foil corresponds with the said distance. Once the foil is positioned over preferably the complete length of the greenhouse and the foil being engaged with the ridge profile over preferably the entire length of the ridge profile, the foil is unfolded as shown in figure 6C. Then, the foil is fixed at the gutter profiles 2, shown by the arrows. During this fixation, the foil is preferably tensed or stretched laterally. Then, the window frames 6 are preferably lowered to an open position wherein the lower window profiles are in a position below the ridge profile, and the foil 10 is cut longitudinally at a position between the lower window profile 8 and the intermediate profile 4, shown by the arrows. This can advantageously be done from the interior of the greenhouse, e.g. by an operator working on a service platform 15. The cutting can also be done when the window frames 6 are in the position as shown in figures 6 A-C, but then, the operator has to lean out more towards the lower window profile which may be less desired.

[0067] As shown in figure 6E, the cutting results in a cutting edge, dividing the foil in two separate longitudinal sections, an upper section US, being engaged, over the middle line ML of the foil 10, with the ridge profile 3, the cutting edge CE of the upper section US being at the lower window profile 8, whereas the lower section LS is fixed to the gutter profiles 2, the cutting edge CE thereof being at the intermediate profiles 4. Since the width of the foil exceeds the lateral circumference LC of the roof frame 1 , there is sufficient foil to be pulled, over the respective lower window beam and the intermediate profile inwardly for fixation.

[0068] Figure 6F shows the foil after fixation at the lower window frame and the intermediate profile, the fixation location is schematically shown as a black dot.

[0069] Figure 7 shows a lower window profile 8 with an upper side 87, a lower side 84, opposite to the upper side 87, a transverse side 88 between the upper side 87 and lower side 84, and a curved side 83 opposite the traverse side 88. At the lower side 84, the window profile 8 comprises a longitudinally extending open first foil fixing chamber 81 , having a longitudinal opening 81 A, extending over the length of the profile. First foil fixing chamber 81 can receive the upper section US of the foil 10 therein, whereafter the foil can be fixed to the profile by clamping a snugly fitting clamping strip in the opening 81 A of first foil fixing chamber 81 . The opening does not necessarily need to be narrower than the chamber, as long as the foil can be fixed therein. The lower window profile 8 further comprises another longitudinally extending chamber 82, the opening of which faces towards the same side as chamber 81 , and is designed to accommodate a water seal therein, such as a rubber profile. The said chamber 82 is at the side of the said profile 8 facing to the interior of the greenhouse. The profile 8 may comprise an additional slit 85, intended to hold an insect curtain or the like. Longitudinally open chambers 86A, B and C, can be used to connect with a lateral beam or other construction elements, such as a spanner element, suitable to apply lateral force for the foil to stretch in lateral direction. Chamber 86B is attractively used for connection with a lateral beam, extending towards the ridge profile. The curved side 83 of the profile 8 extends from the upper side 87 toward and abutting the lower side 84 of the profile 8 facing the interior space of the greenhouse. To this end, in the profile shown, the lower side (84) comprises an extended end portion, extending beyond the upper side (47, 87) over a length L, the curved side (83) providing a curved surface extending from the upper side (87) towards and abutting the lower side (84) at the extended end portion. However, it is also possible for the curved surface to span a half circle of half ellipsoid, without the necessity for the lower side (84) to extend beyond the upper side (87).

[0070] This curved side provides a continuous curved surface that allows for convenient pulling of the foil inwardly over the curved surface, as shown by the arrow, whereafter the foil can be fixed in chamber 81 as explained above. The very same profile can be used as intermediate profile 4, as shown in figure 8. Accordingly, said intermediate profile 4 has an upper side 47, a lower side 44, opposite to the upper side 47, a transverse side 48 between the upper side 47 and lower side 44, and a curved side 43 opposite the traverse side 48. At the lower side 44, the intermediate profile 4 comprises a longitudinally extending open second foil fixing chamber 41 , having a longitudinal opening 41 A, extending over the length of the profile. For use as intermediate profile, the profile 4 is mounted with a curved surface 43 on the outside, i.e., the upper edge 43 of the intermediate profile 4 facing to the exterior curves inwardly towards the inner side 44 facing the interior of the greenhouse. For use as intermediate profile, chambers 42 and 45 do not have any function. It can therefore be contemplated to provide an intermediate profile, void of said chambers. As for the lower windows profile, longitudinally open chambers 46A, B and C can be used to connect with a lateral beam or other construction elements, such as a spanner element, suitable to apply lateral force for the foil to stretch in lateral direction. In particular, Chamber 46B can be connected with a lateral beam, extending towards the gutter element.

[0071] Figure 9A show a ridge profile 3 comprising an upper chamber 31 for accommodating a drawstring 12 therein, see figure 12, the upper chamber 31 has an upper longitudinal opening 32, extending over the length of the profile 3. the opening 32 is narrower than the chamber 31 , so as to prohibit the string 12 to exit the chamber 31 through the said opening 32. The opening is wider than twice the thickness of the foil 10 in order to allow the foil to protrude outwardly therefrom. Longitudinally open chambers 36A, B and C can be used to connect with a lateral beams and hinges for connecting with the window frame and other construction elements.

[0072] In orderto accomplish engagement of the foil 10 with the profile 3 such, that the foil is fixed with respect to the ridge profile 3, one end of the drawstring 12, having a diameter of more than the opening 32 of the chamber 31 can be connected with a tensile lace, having a diameter of less then the opening 32, and the tensile lace 13 is placed in the chamber 31. Meanwhile, the foil 10 and the drawstring 12 are combined by wrapping the foil 10 around the drawstring 12, the middle line ML of the foil 10 being parallel to and abutting the drawstring (12). Then, from the first longitudinal edge of the ridge profile (3), i.e. the end thereof located at the face of the greenhouse, the drawstring 12 combined with the foil 10 is fed into the chamber 31 so as to be surrounded by the foil 10, allowing the foil 10 to protrude from the chamber 31 to the exterior through the opening 32 of the chamber 31. The drawstring 12 is moved through the chamber 31 towards the opposite longitudinal edge of the ridge profile 3 by either pulling of the tensile lace 13 or pulling the drawstring 12 towards the opposite edge of the ridge profile 3.

[0073] Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a working platform 15 to be transported over the rail elements 14 that extend in longitudinal direction in the interior roof space RS of the greenhouse G, allowing an operator 16 to work from the said working platform 15 to perform construction and maintenance tasks. The working platform 15 is provided with fall protection such as fence elements 21. The working platform 15 can be provided with a driving motor to move back and forth over the rail elements 14.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method of applying a transparent foil material (10, 11) on a gable roof (R) of a greenhouse (G), wherein the gable roof (R) comprises a roof frame (1) including two gutter profiles (2), a ridge profile(3) and two intermediate profiles (4) extending parallel to each other, wherein the intermediate profiles(4) are located between the ridge profile (3) and the respective gutter profiles (2), wherein at either side of the ridge profile (3) the gutter profile (2), the ridge profile (3) and the intermediate profile (4) are interconnected through lateral frame beams (5) extending in transverse direction of said profiles (2, 3, 4), the roof frame (1) having a lateral circumference (LC) defined by the distance between the top of the ridge profile (3) and the two gutter profiles (2), wherein the roof (R) also comprises two window frames (6), located at either side ofthe ridge profile (3), each window frame (6) having an upper window profile (7) which is hingeably connected with the roof frame and rotatable with respect to the ridge profile (3) about a pivot axis (PA) extending in longitudinal direction parallel to the ridge profile (3) and a lower window profile (8) located at a distance from the upper window profile (7), wherein each window frame (6) is rotatable between a closed position in which the lower window profile (8) lies at the intermediate profile (4) and open positions, the open positions being limited to an open end position, in which open positions the lower window profile (8) lies at a distance from the intermediate profile (4) above the intermediate profile (4), wherein the method comprises the steps of a) providing the foil (10) material having a length (L) and a width (W), the width of the foil material exceeding the lateral circumference (LC) of the roof frame (1), the width (W) being limited by a first and a second longitudinal edge (LE1 , LE2) that extend substantially parallel opposite to one another, the foil (10) having a middle line (ML) extending longitudinally at equal distance between the longitudinal edges of the foil (10), dividing the foil in a first and a second longitudinal portion (LP1 , LP2) respectively, the first and second longitudinal portions (LP1 , LP2) being folded towards the middle line (ML) at least once over first and second folding lines (FL1 , FL2), respectively, extending substantially parallel to the middle line (ML), defining a first folded section (FS1) and a second folded section (FS2), the foil having a folded width (FW) defined by the largest distance between the first and second folding lines (FL1 , FL2). b) positioning the window frames (6) an open position; c) positioning the foil (10) in folded condition onto the roof frame by engaging the foil (10) at the position of the middle line (ML) thereof, with the ridge profile (3); d) unfolding the foil (10), allowing the foil (10) to extend towards the gutter profiles (2); e) fixing the foil (10) at the first and second longitudinal edges thereof (LE1 , LE2) to the two gutter profiles (2) respectively; f) when in engagement with the ridge profile (3) and when the window frames (6) are in the open position, cutting the foil (10) longitudinally between the lower window profile (8) and the intermediate profile (4), creating a cutting edge (CE) dividing the foil (10) in an upper foil section (US) and a lower foil section (LS); g) fixing the upper foil section (US) at the cutting edge (CE) thereof to the lower window profile (8); and h) fixing the lower foil section (LS) at the cutting edge (CE) thereof, at the intermediate profile (4).

2. Method of claim 1 , wherein step g) further comprises laterally stretching the upper foil section (US).

3. Method of claim 1 or 2, wherein step h) further comprises laterally stretching the lower foil section (LS).

4. Method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein both first and second folded sections (FS1 , FS2) do not extend over the middle line (ML) so as not to overlap with one another.

5. Method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second longitudinal portion (LP1 , LP2) of the foil (10) are folded over a plurality of first and second folding lines (FL1 a, FL1 b, FL1 c, FL2a, FL2b, FL2c), respectively, extending parallel and distanced from each other.

6. Method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the folded width (FW) of the foil (10) is 80 - 120 % of the sum of the distance between both lower window profiles (8) and the ridge profile (3).

7. Method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower window profile (8) comprises foil fixing means (81) for fixing the upper foil section (US), the foil fixing means (81) being located at a side of the said profile (8) facing to the interior of the greenhouse.

8. Method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate profile (4) comprises foil fixing means (41) for fixing the lower foil section (LS), the foil fixing means (41) being located at a side of the said profile (41) facing to the interior of the greenhouse.

9. Method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ridge profile (3) comprises an upper chamber (31) for accommodating a drawstring (12) therein, the upper chamber (31) comprising an upper longitudinal opening (32), extending over the length of the profile (3), the opening (32) being narrower than the chamber (31), so as to prohibit the drawstring (12) to exit the chamber (31) through the opening (32), the opening (32) being wider than twice the thickness of the foil (10), the step of engaging the foil (10) with the ridge profile (3) comprising the steps of: a. connecting one end of the drawstring (12), having a diameter of more than the opening (32) of the chamber (31) with a tensile lace (13), having a diameter of less then the opening (32); b. placing the tensile lace (13) in the chamber (31); c. combining the foil (10) with the drawstring (12) by wrapping the foil (10) around the drawstring (12), the middle line (ML) of the foil (10) being parallel to and abutting the drawstring (12) and d. feeding, from the first longitudinal edge of the ridge profile (3), the drawstring (12) combined with the foil (10) into the chamber (31) so as to be surrounded by the foil (10), allowing the foil (10) to protrude from the chamber (31) to the exterior through the opening (32) of the chamber (31); e. moving the drawstring (12) towards the opposite second longitudinal edge of the ridge profile (3) by either pulling of the tensile lace (13) or the drawstring (12) towards the second opposite edge of the ridge profile (3).

10. Method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the greenhouse (G) comprises uprights (18), the top portion thereof being fixedly connected with lattice beams (17) extending substantially horizontally and perpendicular to the ridge profile (3), the uprights (18) and lattice beams (17) supporting the roof frame (1) and an interior roof space (RS) being defined as the space limited by the roof frame (1) and the lattice beams (17), the greenhouse further comprising, in the interior roof space (RS) one or more rail elements (14), extending parallel to the ridge profile (3), enabling a working platform (15) to be moved over the said rail elements (14), allowing an operator (16) to be positioned thereon to fix the upper foil section (US) to the lower window profile (8) and the lower foil section (LS) at the intermediate profile (4) while being in the said interior roof space (RS).11 . Greenhouse, comprising a gable roof (R), the gable roof (R) comprising a roof frame (1) including two gutter profiles (2), a ridge profile (3) and two intermediate profiles (4) extending parallel to each other, wherein the intermediate profiles (4) are located between the ridge profile (3) and the respective gutter profiles (2), wherein at either side of the ridge profile (3) the gutter profile (2), the ridge profile (3) and the intermediate profile (4) are interconnected through lateral frame beams (5) extending in transverse direction of said profiles (2, 3, 4), the roof frame having a lateral circumference defined by the distance between the top of the ridge profile and the two gutter profiles, wherein the roof (R) also comprises two window frames (6), located at either side of the ridge profile (3), each window frame (6) having an upper window profile (7) which is hingeably connected with the roof frame and rotatable with respect to the ridge profile (3) about a pivot axis (PA) extending in longitudinal direction of the ridge profile (3) and a lower window profile (8) located at a distance from the upper window profile (7), wherein each window frame (6) is rotatable between a closed position in which the lower window profile (8) lies at the intermediate profile (4) and open positions, the open positions being limited to an open end position, in which open positions the lower window profile (8) lies at a distance from the intermediate profile (4) above the intermediate profile (4), wherein the lower window profile (8) comprises first foil fixing means (81), located at a side of the said window profile (8) facing to the interior of the greenhouse, the roof (R) of the greenhouse being covered with transparent foil material, the said foil material comprising a longitudinally extending upper foil section (US) and a longitudinally extending lower foil section (LS), the upper foil section (US) laterally extending from the ridge profile (3) to the lower window profile (8) and being engaged with the ridge profile (3) and fixed to the lower window profile (8) at the first fixing means (81) thereof, the lower foil section laterally extending from the intermediate profile (4) to the gutter profile (2) and being fixed to the intermediate profile (4) and the gutter profile (2).

12. Greenhouse of claim 11 , wherein the intermediate profile (4) comprises second foil fixing means (41), located at a side of the said profile (4) facing to the interior of the greenhouse, the lower foil section (LS) being fixed to the intermediate profile (4) at the second fixing means (41) thereof.

13. Greenhouse of claim 11 or 12, wherein the first and / or second foil fixing means (41 , 81) comprise a first and second foil fixing chamber (41 , 81), respectively, extending over the length of the respective profile (4, 8), the foil fixing chambers (41 , 81) comprising a longitudinal opening (41 a, 81 a), extending over the length of the profile (4, 8), the longitudinal opening (41 a, 81 a), being narrower than the chamber (31), the foil being fixed in the respective foil fixing chamber (41 ,81).

14. Greenhouse of to any one of the claims 11 - 13, wherein the ridge profile (3) comprises an upper chamber (31) for accommodating a drawstring (12) therein, the upper chamber (31) comprising an upper longitudinal opening (32), extending over the length of the profile (3), the opening (32) being narrower than the chamber (31), so as to prohibit the drawstring (12) to exit the chamber (31) through the opening (32), the opening (32) being wider than twice the thickness of the foil (10), the upper foil section (US) being engaged with and fixed to the ridge profile (3) by being wrapped around the drawstring (12), accommodated in the upper chamber (31).

15. Greenhouse of to any one of the claims 11 - 14, wherein the lower window profile (8) comprises an upper side (87) facing towards the exterior of the greenhouse, an opposite lower side (84) facing to the interior of the roof space (RS) of the greenhouse, a transverse side (88) between the upper side (87) and lower side (84), the transverse side (88) facing the ridge profile (3), and a curved side (83)opposite the traverse side (88) and facing away from the ridge profile (3), the curved side (83) providing a curved surface extending from the upper side (87) downward to and abutting with the lower side (84) of the lower window profile (8), the upper foil section (US) lying against the curved surface of the curved side (83).

16. Greenhouse of any one of the claims 11 - 15, wherein the intermediate profile (4) comprises an upper side (47) facing towards the exterior of the greenhouse, an opposite lower side (44) facing the interior of the greenhouse, a transverse side (48) between the upper side (47) and lower side (44), the transverse side (48) facing the gutter profile (2), and a curved side (43) opposite the traverse side (48) and facing away from the gutter profile (2), the curved side (83) providing a curved surface extending from the upper side (47) downward to and abutting with the lower side (44) of the intermediate profile (4), the lower foil section (LS) lying against the curved surface of the curved side (43).

17. Greenhouse of any one of the claims 1 1 - 16, wherein the lower window profile (8) further comprises water seal fixing means (82) for fixing water sealing means, which water seal fixing means (82) are at the side of the said profile (8) facing to the interior of the greenhouse, the greenhouse comprising a water seal, fixed to the lower window profile (8) at the water seal fixing means (82) thereof.

18. Greenhouse of any one of the claims 1 1 - 17, comprising uprights (18), the top portion thereof being fixedly connected with lattice beams (17) extending perpendicular to the ridge profile, the uprights (18) and lattice beams (17) supporting the roof frame (1), and an interior roof space (RS) being defined as the space limited by the roof frame (1) and the lattice beams (17), the greenhouse (G) further comprising, in the interior roof space (RS) one or more rail elements (14), extending parallel to the ridge element (3), enabling a working platform (15) to be moved over the said rail elements (14), allowing an operator (16) to be positioned thereon to fix the upper foil section (US) to the lower window profile (8) and the lower foil section (LS) at the intermediate profile (4) while being in the said interior space (IS).

19. Greenhouse of claim 18, wherein the one or more rail elements (14) are mounted on the lattice beams (17).

20. Greenhouse of claim 18 or 19, comprising a wheeled moving platform, carried by and moveable over the rail elements.21 . Profile (4, 8) for a greenhouse according to any of the claims 11 - 20, the profile comprising an upper side (47, 87), an opposite lower side (44, 84), a transverse side (48, 88) between the upper side (47, 87) and lower side (44, 84), and a curved side (43, 83) opposite the traverse side (48, 88), the curved side (43, 83) providing a curved surface extending from the upper side (47, 87) toward and abutting the lower side (44, 84) of the profile (4, 8), the lower side comprising a first longitudinal chamber, extending over the length of the profile for fixing a foil material therein.

22. Profile (4, 8) of claim 21 , wherein the curved side (43, 83) provides a continuous curved surface extending over the length of the profile (4,8).

23. Profile (4, 8) of claim 20 or 22, further comprising, at the lower side thereof a second longitudinal chamber (42, 82), extending over the length of the profile (4, 8) for fixing water sealing means therein.

24. Profile (4, 8) of any of claims 20 - 23, wherein the lower side (44, 84) comprises an extended end portion, extending beyond the upper side (47, 87) over a length L, the curved side (43, 83) providing a curved surface extending from the upper side (47, 87) towards and abutting the lower side (44, 84) at the extended end portion.side (48, 88) and the lower side (44, 84) comprises an additional longitudinal chamber (46a, 46b, 46c, 86a, 86b, 86c) extending over the length of the profile (4, 8).

26. Profile (4, 8) of any of claims 25 - 26, wherein the longitudinal chamber (41 , 81) comprises a longitudinal opening (41 a, 81 a), extending over the length of the profile (4, 8), the longitudinal opening(41 a, 81 a), being narrower than the chamber (41 , 81).

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