The invention relates to an assembly of a construction and of an edge element, the construction having a longitudinal side, the edge element being arranged on said longitudinal side in order to at least partially cover said longitudinal side, wherein the edge element is attached to the construction by means of a suspension arrangement.

An assembly of the abovementioned kind is known. The construction may, for example, be a concrete bridge, from which an edge element, such as a fibre-reinforced composite, is suspended on the longitudinal side. The edge element can be used to impart a desired appearance to the construction in a relatively simple manner. The edge element has a different composition and different physical properties, for example a different coefficient of expansion, from the construction. The edge element may give shape to the construction, but can also simply determine, for example, the texture and the colour.

The edge element may be attached to the construction by a suspension arrangement. To this end, use can be made of bolt connections. The composite is provided with holes. The bolts are inserted into these holes from the outside, and fastened to a metal frame which is fitted to the construction.

One drawback of the known suspension arrangement is the fact that thermal expansion of the frame can result in stress in the edge element. The composite, for example, expands to a greater or lesser degree with respect to the structure to which, and in particular along which, the edge element is attached, as a result of which undesirable stress and distortion may occur in the edge element.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an assembly of a construction and an edge element, wherein stress in the edge element due to thermal expansion is prevented or reduced.

To this end, the invention provides an assembly of a construction and of an edge element. The edge element may be attached to the construction by means of a suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangement comprises at least two coupling parts arranged at a longitudinal distance from one another on the longitudinal side of the construction. Suspension arrangement is understood to refer to the entirety of coupling parts by means of which the edge element is attached to the construction. The coupling parts are arranged at a distance from one another in the longitudinal direction of the construction. The at least two attachment points ensure that the suspension arrangement is stable.

One coupling part may be provided with a connecting element extending in the longitudinal direction. The assembly is furthermore provided with a securing system for securing the edge element to the connecting element. The connecting element has a guide extending in the longitudinal direction to allow a relative movement of the securing system with respect to the connecting element in said longitudinal direction. The guide may be arranged between the construction and the edge element. The securing system comprises a securing element that allows movement thereof through the guide in a gripping manner. The guide ensures that the securing system is movable in a longitudinal direction. As a result thereof, a suspension arrangement is provided, wherein relative movement of the edge element with respect to the connecting element in at least the longitudinal direction remains partially possible.

The securing system preferably comprises a flange part placed at a distance from the connecting element by means of a spacer. The securing element can engage with the flange part. The securing system can be guided along the connecting element. The spacer ensures that the flange part does not engage with the connecting element in a clamping manner. The distance may, for example, be 1 mm. Preferably, the distance is approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 3 mm. This allows for a relatively easy sliding displacement of the flange part with respect to the connecting element. Friction between the flange part and the connecting element is prevented. When the edge element expands as a result of variations in temperature, the securing element can move relatively easily with respect to the connecting element. Thus, the shape of the edge element will be retained, and stress in the edge element will be reduced. Large forces are also prevented from occurring in the connection between the connecting element and the edge element. These forces may possibly result in damage to the edge element, for example as a result of the connecting element cutting or breaking through the edge element.

Even in the coupled position of the edge element, the flange part is preferably arranged at a distance from the connecting element to allow a relative movement of the securing system with respect to the connecting element in a coupled state. In this way, it is possible to absorb in particular relative displacements due to variations in temperature.

The securing system may furthermore comprise an intermediate piece provided between the edge element and the connecting element for maintaining a distance between the connecting element and the edge element. The edge element can thus be arranged at a distance from the connecting element. The distance may be a vertical distance. In this way, the edge element is protected against damage resulting from frictional contact between the edge element and the connecting element during movement by thermal expansion. The frictional contact occurs between the connecting element and the intermediate piece. Optionally, the intermediate piece may be designed to accommodate the edge element in a clamping manner. The edge element is thus fixedly secured in the securing system. This prevents play between the edge element and the securing system, as a result of which damage to the edge element is avoided.

It is possible for the flange part and the intermediate piece to be arranged on either side of the connecting element extending in the longitudinal direction.

In order to prevent damage to the intermediate piece and the connecting element, a sliding element may be arranged between the intermediate piece and the connecting element. The sliding element is designed to reduce the sliding resistance between the intermediate piece and the connecting element. Use of the sliding element prevents wear of the sliding components, and thus also prevents corrosion. The sliding element may, for example, be made of hard fabric, such as for example phenolic cotton. The sliding element can also be made from a thermoplastic, such as for example POM,

HDPE, PA. Other thermoplastics or hard fabrics are of course also conceivable. In one embodiment, the spacer is designed to keep the flange part and the intermediate piece a distance apart. The connecting element is accommodated in between and has a thickness which is smaller than the distance between the flange part and the intermediate piece. The spacer ensures that the edge element has some play in the longitudinal direction of the securing element, that is to say in a direction at right angles to the guiding direction and/or in a direction at right angles to the longitudinal direction of the assembly. The edge element is thus fixedly secured to the connecting element, without the connecting element being clamped. Thus, a non-clamping connection is achieved, as a result of which guidance in the longitudinal direction can be effected relatively easily.

It is possible for the spacer to be formed by a bush, such as for example a threaded bush. The threaded bush can be used for fixing of the securing element, such as for example a bolt. The threaded bush can also serve as a guide which cooperates with a recess in the connecting element to render the securing element movable in a longitudinal direction of the connecting element.

In one embodiment, the spacer forms an integral part of the flange part. In this manner, it is possible to realize the spacer and the attachment to the connecting element by a single technical component.

The assembly may be provided with a transfer means engaging with an opening in the edge element in order to dissipate forces acting on the suspension arrangement away from the edge element. This reduces stress (such as surface pressure stress and interlaminar shear stress) in the edge element, for example a composite, which increases the service life of the composite.

The transfer means may comprise a bush which is provided in the opening of the edge element with a tight fit. The securing element is preferably accommodated in the bush. The diameter of the bush is preferably relatively large, so that the stresses around the opening of the edge element remain limited. Forces which act on the securing element, are thus transferred to a relatively large surface area of the composite. It is also possible for the transfer means to have a flange on its bottom side. The flange can ensure that the forces of the edge element are transferred to a relatively large surface area of the connecting element. In this way, the edge element can also be arranged at a distance from the connecting element.

It is possible for the intermediate piece to be formed by at least part of the flange. The intermediate piece and the transfer means can thus be formed integrally.

Preferably, the securing element does not engage with the transfer means. Thus, the securing element can move with some play with respect to die transfer means. Forces which occur on the securing element are thus not transferred directly to the transfer means.

The securing element may be a pin extending through an opening in the edge element.

In one embodiment, the connecting element has a slot-shaped opening wherein the securing element can be accommodated. The slot-shaped opening may form the guide in the longitudinal direction.

It is possible for the connecting element to extend between two coupling parts. The coupling parts and the connecting element may form a frame from which the edge element is suspended.

In one embodiment, the securing element is accommodated in a threaded bush.

The connecting element may have a profiled section extending in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the profiled section may be a C-shaped profiled section which forms a receiving part and guide.

The securing system may be provided with at least two securing elements which are arranged at a longitudinal distance from one another and engage with the flange part. In this manner, the edge element is secured further, so that undesirable displacement is prevented. In a particular embodiment, the flange part or the intermediate piece is a plate. It is possible for the flange part and the intermediate piece to be plates. The plates may be arranged on either side of the connecting element extending in the longitudinal direction.

In one embodiment, the securing system comprises a plate. At least two securing elements arranged at a longitudinal distance from one another can engage with the plate. The plate can be guided along the connecting element. Such an embodiment improves the attachment.

In one embodiment, the plate has a threaded bush. The threaded bush can be used for the attachment of the securing element, for example a bolt. The threaded bush may also serve as a guide in order to render the plate movable in the longitudinal direction of the connecting element.

Preferably, the plate has a spacer for keeping the plates at a distance from one another. The connecting element may be accommodated in between and have a thickness which is smaller than the distance between the plates. As a result thereof, a non-clamping connection is produced which makes guidance in a longitudinal direction relatively simple.

It is possible for a bush, for example a threaded bush, to form the spacer. In this manner, it is possible to realize the spacer and the attachment to the connecting element by a single technical component.

In one embodiment, a clamping part is provided on the top side of the edge element, with the securing element engaging with the clamping part. The clamping part ensures that the edge element is fixedly secured between the clamping part and the intermediate piece. In this way, a suspension arrangement is formed while retaining the freedom of movement in a degree of freedom, in particular in the direction along the construction. The edge element is preferably a composite which may be suspended from a metal frame, preferably a steel frame. If desired, it is also possible to suspend the edge element from a separate support (such as a single carrier), in order thus to produce a direct fixation to the construction.

Further advantages, characteristic features and details of the present invention will be explained by means of the following description of some preferred embodiments thereof. In the description, reference is made to the attached drawings, wherein:

Fig. Ia shows a sectional view of a suspension arrangement of an edge element 7 on a construction 1. Li this embodiment, the construction is a bridge. The construction 1 may, for example, also be a part of a building, such as an office or a home. Of course, other constructions are conceivable. The construction 1 has a longitudinal direction, which extends at right angles to the plane of the figure in Figs. Ia-Ic.

The bridge from Fig. Ia comprises a girder 2. At the top side of the girder, a bridge deck 3 is provided. The girder 2 and the bridge deck 3 may be made of concrete and extend in the longitudinal direction. A balustrade 4 is provided along one side of the bridge deck 3. The balustrade 4 may be a fence. An edge element 7 is arranged to the side of the bridge 1. The edge element extends along the construction 1. A part of the construction 1 is surrounded or covered by the edge element 7.

The edge element 7 is preferably a composite, such as a fibre-reinforced composite or plastic. The composite can be used to provide the construction with the desired appearance in a relatively simple manner. The composite can be given a desired shape relatively easily and the composite is relatively light. By arranging a composite on the construction, the appearance of the construction can be altered as desired. In the illustrated embodiment, the edge element 7 has a C-shaped or boomerang-like cross section. At the top side and at the bottom side, the edge element 7 is attached to a coupling part 9 for coupling the edge element 7 to the construction. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling part 9 is connected to the bridge deck 3 of the bridge 2 by means of fastening means (not shown). The coupling part may, for example, be a frame or a support. Figs. Ib and Ic show details of the suspension arrangement of the edge element 7 along the top side and the bottom side of the coupling part 9, respectively.

The top side of the edge element 7 (Fig. Ib) is connected to the coupling part 9 via a connecting element 13. The edge element 7 is suspended from the connecting element 13 by means of a securing element 11, for example a bolt, and a number of clamping parts 12,14. The clamping parts 12,14 and the edge element 7 are each provided with openings for leading through the securing element 11. The opening may be a recess. Clamping part 12 is arranged on the top side of the edge element 7. The clamping part

12 may be plate-shaped or ring-shaped. Clamping part 14 is provided on the bottom side of the edge element 7. The opening in the bottommost clamping part 14 is also provided with a receiving part for releasably connecting the securing element 11 to the bottom clamping part 14. The bottom clamping part may be plate-shaped. The receiving part may, for example, comprise an internal screw thread or a bush.

The top part of the edge element 7 is suspended from the construction 1 as follows. Between the bottom clamping part 14 and the edge element 7, the connecting element

13 may be provided. The connecting element 13 makes fitting of the edge element 7 to the construction 1 relatively simple, partly due to the fact that alignment of the edge element can readily be carried out. The connecting element 13 may comprise an L- shaped profiled section. In this embodiment, the connecting element 13 extends along part of the construction 1. The connecting element 13 may be a frame or a support. Both the frame and the support may extend along part of the construction.

The connecting element 13 and the coupling part 9 may be part of a framed structure, for example a number of rectangular parts which form a frame. The connecting element 13 is preferably a cross beam of this frame, while the coupling part 9 forms an upright of the frame. The frame may already be provided on the construction before the edge element is attached.

Preferably, the bottom clamping part 14 is arranged on the bottom side of the connecting element 13 before the edge element 7 is fitted. The clamping part 14 may be prefitted using means which have not been illustrated. Installation is preferably carried out by means of a bolt and a slot-shaped hole in the connecting element, in such a manner that the bolt is movable in the longitudinal direction.

The horizontal part of the connecting element 13 may have a further slot-shaped opening, into which the securing element 11, for example the bolt, can be inserted. The vertical part of the connecting element 13 can be connected to the coupling part 9 in order to fix the top part to the bridge 1.

It is possible to suspend the bottom part of the edge element 7 from the construction 1 in the above manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom part of the edge element 7 is suspended from the construction 1 as follows. The bottom part of the edge element 7 may comprise a profiled section which is U-shaped in cross section. The U-shaped profiled section forms the end 20 of the edge element 7 along the construction 1. The leg of the U is formed by a flange.

In the bottom of the U, an opening may be provided into which a securing element 17, such as a bolt, can be inserted. Clamping components 18,19 are arranged both at the top and at the bottom of the U-shaped part of the edge element 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping components 18,19 are nuts 18,19. The clamping components 18,19 clamp the securing element 17 to the edge element 7. The assembly of securing element 17 and edge element 7 can be attached to the coupling part 9, to which end a connecting element 21 is provided. The connecting element 21 extends along a part of the construction 1. The connecting element may comprise an L-shaped profiled section. The vertical part of the L-shaped profiled section 21 can be attached to the coupling part 9. A receiving part 22 is provided on the bottom side of the L- shaped profiled section 21. The receiving part can, for example, be welded to the profiled section. The receiving part 22 may comprise a C-shaped profiled section. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving part comprises an anchor rod, being a standard C-shaped profiled section. A protruding part of the securing element 17 can be accommodated in the receiving part 22. This part rests on the bottom side of the anchor rod. The part may, for example, be a projection, wherein a stop of the projection rests on the bottom side of the anchor rod. The projecting part may also be a flange or, for example, the head of a bolt.

Together with, for example, the head of a bolt, the receiving part forms a suspension arrangement, said suspension arrangement allowing a displacement in the longitudinal direction of the receiving part.

Installation of the edge element 7 can be carried out as follows. The suspension arrangement on the bottom side of the edge element 7 is prepared by fastening the bolt 17 to the U-shaped end 20. Subsequently, the edge element 7 can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the C-shaped profiled section. Thus, the bottom side of the edge element 7 is fixed. If desired, the height of the edge element can be adjusted by tightening or loosening one of the nuts 18,19. The top side of the edge element 7 is subsequently positioned in such a way that the holes in the edge element 7 are in line with the holes in the connecting element 13. Then, the upper clamping part can be fitted in order to fix the securing element to the receiving part of the bottom clamping part 14 and thus to attach the edge element to the construction.

The next edge element can be fitted in a relatively simple manner. By means of the receiving part, the edge element can simply be pushed next to the already fitted edge element. Fixing the edge element can be carried out from the top. That part of the suspension arrangement on the inside of the edge element, which part is generally not readily accessible, no longer has to be accessible. All suspension arrangements can be fixed to the edge element from the outside. Various edge elements can thus be fitted in succession. A previously fitted edge element does not interfere with the fitting of a new element.

The slot-shaped holes in the connecting element make it possible for the securing element to move in a longitudinal direction with respect to the connecting element. Preferably, a total of three securing elements are used for each edge element at the top. It will be clear to those skilled in the art that it is possible to use a different number of securing elements. The length of the edge element can range from a few metres to several tens of metres. As a result of variations in temperature, the edge element will expand or shrink in the longitudinal direction. In this case, the connecting element and/or the construction, which is made of a different material, will expand or shrink to a greater or lesser degree than the edge element. This may thus result in a relative expansion of the edge element with respect to the connecting element. The slot-shaped holes ensure that the relative difference in thermal expansion is compensated for. Thus, no thermal stress will be produced in the edge element.

Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of a suspension arrangement 51 of an edge element 57 to the top deck 53 of a bridge. Fig. 3 shows a side view of the situation as is illustrated in Fig. 2. Identical parts are denoted by the same reference numbers.

In the illustrated embodiment, the construction 53 is a top deck 53 of a bridge. The edge element 57 is attached to the top deck 53. The suspension arrangement will be described in more detail below.

A coupling part 58 is attached to the construction 53. The coupling part may be a metal component, for example a steel profiled section. Along the construction 53, coupling parts 58 may be fitted at, if desired, regular intervals. When the temperature changes, the construction will expand in the longitudinal direction L, as a result of which the mutual distance between said coupling parts will also change. The composite part 57 is suspended from the coupling parts, and thus the position of the suspension arrangement of the composite part will change as a result of the changes in temperature, which may lead to stress in the composite part.

A connecting element 62 is attached to the coupling part 58. The connecting element 62 may be an L-shaped profiled section. The vertical part of the connecting element 62 may be attached to the coupling part 58. An opening, for example a hole, is provided in the horizontal part of the connecting element 62. Preferably, the opening is slot-shaped, and extends in the longitudinal direction L of the connecting element.

At the top of the horizontal part of the connecting element 62, a transfer means 61 for transmitting forces is arranged. The transfer means reduces stress in an opening 64 of the edge element, for example surface pressure stress and interlaminar shear stress. The transfer means has a tube-shaped projection 42 which is provided with an opening. On its bottom side, the transfer means also has a flange 61 which forms an intermediate piece. The intermediate piece, such as the flange, may be designed to maintain the distance between the connecting element and the edge element. The flange can also be designed to clamp the edge element in the securing system. The tubular projection 42 of the transfer means is arranged in an opening 64 in the edge element 57. A further clamping part 68 is provided at the top of the edge element 57. The clamping part is a clamping plate 68. In the clamping plate, two openings are provided. As can be seen from Fig. 2, the openings of the various parts are aligned with respect to one another in such a manner that a securing element 66 can be accommodated in the openings. In the illustrated embodiment, the securing element 66, in this case a bolt 66 with a head 65, is fitted from the top of the assembly downwards. In this case, the bolt is fastened in the bush 41 with internal screw thread. The screw thread of the bolt therefore engages with the interval screw thread of the bush 41. An additional bolt 67 can be fastened in a similar manner.

A flange part 63 or a clamping part, such as a clamping plate 63, is provided on the bottom side of the connecting element 62. In this case, a tubular component 41 is accommodated in the opening of the connecting element 62. The tubular component 41 may be a bush, provided with an internal screw thread, such as a threaded bush.

When the bolt 66 is being tightened, the top clamping plate 68, the intermediate piece 61 and the flange part 63 will be firmly pressed together. In this case, the edge element 57 is also being clamped in.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bush 41 of the bottom clamping plate has a height which is greater than the height of the opening in the connecting element 62. The difference in height may, for example, be approximately 1 mm. Here, the bush forms a spacer between the flange part and the intermediate piece. As a result, the flange part and the intermediate piece will only bear against one another around connecting element 62, without engaging the latter in a clamping manner. A sliding displacement of the flange part 63 and the intermediate piece 61 is thus still possible. As a result thereof, the edge element has some play in the longitudinal direction of the bolt 66. This ensures that the edge element 57 is fixedly attached to the connecting element without the connecting element being clamped in.

In one embodiment, the connecting element 62 is engaged in such a manner that a sliding movement is still possible after engagement has taken place. This results in a suspension arrangement wherein a number of degrees of freedom are completely limited, but wherein freedom is partly possible in at least two directions.

In another embodiment, the plates 63 and 68 engage with one another around the connecting element, with the connecting element being accommodated in a space which is formed between the plates. In this case as well, a suspension arrangement is created which retains a degree of freedom in the freedom of movement, in particular in the direction along the construction.

This suspension arrangement, in combination with the slot-shaped openings in the connecting element 62 extending in the longitudinal direction L makes a relative expansion of the connecting element 62 in a longitudinal direction thereof with respect to the edge element 57 possible. The relative expansion may be the result of variations in temperature, due to the fact that the thermal coefficient of expansion of the two parts is different. Since there is no clamping connection between the connecting element 62 and the edge element 57, a (limited) movement of the suspension arrangement in the slots of the connecting element 62 is readily possible. The edge element 57 will thus not be relatively deformed, as a result of which no additional stress will occur in the material either. The service life of the edge element 57 is thus relatively long and the aesthetic appearance of the edge element 57 is also ensured.

Preferably, the bolt 66 does not engage with the transfer means. To this end, a part of the bolt may be provided with a smooth outer surface. The bolt may be fitted in the transfer means with a loose fit. The transfer means 61 still ensures that the stresses in the composite part are reduced. The transfer means transmits the clamping force of the securing element to the bottom clamping part. The clamping force of the securing element is thus not concentrated completely around the hole 64 in the composite part. Consequently, the stresses in the composite part will be lower and the material will have a longer service life. In addition, the transfer means ensures that forces in the radial direction of the recess 64 can readily be transmitted. To this end, the transfer means has a relatively large outer diameter and is preferably provided in the recess with a relatively tight fit. Thus, the surface pressure stress in the material will be smaller, as a result of which the risk of damage to the recess is reduced.

In the illustrated embodiment, the opening of the upper clamping part 68 is a tapering opening, which can accommodate a tapering bolt 66 so as to be flush-mounted. Thus, the securing elements 66 can be concealed, which is safer and also more attractive.

The coupling part 58 and the connecting element 62 form a frame 58, 62. The frame 58,62 can extend in a longitudinal direction L of the construction 53. The edge element 57, together with a number of the suspension arrangements illustrated in Fig. 2, can be connected to the coupling part 58 in the longitudinal direction. In one possible embodiment, a total of three suspension arrangements are used.

Fig. 4 shows another embodiment of a securing device 81 for securing an edge element 87 to a construction. The securing device 81 comprises a connecting element 320. The connecting element 320 will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 320 is an L-shaped profiled section, comprising a horizontal part 322 and a vertical part 321. In the horizontal part 322 of the connecting element 320, in each case two openings 324, 325 are provided at both ends. Preferably, the openings 324,325 are slot-shaped and extend in the longitudinal direction of the connecting element 320. In the illustrated embodiment, a projection 330 with an opening 331 is provided in the centre of the connecting element 320.

It can be seen in Fig. 4 that coupling parts 100 are fitted to two ends of the profiled section on the vertical part 97 for coupling the edge element 87 to a construction (not shown). The coupling parts 100 are step-shaped profiled sections and comprise a spacer part 103. The spacer part 103 can be longer or shorter, as desired, in order to ensure that the top part of the edge element 87 can be joined to the construction in the desired manner. In the coupling part 100, two elongate slots 101,102 are provided. By means of these slots, the coupling part can be attached to the construction. The slots can also be used to align the edge element 87 beforehand, for example to ensure it is level.

A plate part 83 with two openings 84,85 is provided on the top side of the connecting element 320. The openings 84,85 are aligned with the openings of the connecting element 320. Opening 84 can be used to attach the plate part to the connecting element 320. It is for example possible to use a bolt with a nut or any other securing means.

The other opening 85 can be used for the attachment of the edge element 87. The edge element is provided with openings 93 at two ends. These openings can be brought in line with openings 85. Transfer means 92 are provided in the openings 93. The transfer means have an opening. A securing element 91 is passed through the openings 93,85 from the top side. At the bottom side of the connecting element 320, the securing element 91 is slidably secured. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, a nut can be provided on the bottom side of the bolt 91. The nut is fitted in such a manner that it is arranged at a distance from the connecting element 320. In this embodiment, the nut forms the flange part. Due to the slots which are provided in the connecting element 320 and the non-clamping connection of the bolt and nut to the connecting element, the suspension arrangement can be moved in the longitudinal direction.

It should be noted that the securing element 91 (and the mounting of the plate part 83 on the connecting element 320 by means of opening 84) is preferably secured in such a manner that a non-clamping connection is obtained. In other words, the suspension arrangement is such that movement of the suspension arrangement in the longitudinal direction of the slots in the connecting element 320 is possible. As has already been described above, this makes a relative thermal expansion of the connecting element 320 possible, without any, for example, undesirable stresses occurring in the edge element 87.

In the centre of the edge element 87, an additional opening 93 is provided, into which a transfer means 92 with an opening can be fitted. A securing element 91 can be passed through the opening in the transfer means 92. The securing element can be passed through opening 331 in the connecting element 320. The securing element can be secured at the bottom side of the connecting element 320. The position of the edge element is preferably secured in a clamping manner.

The opening 331 in the projection 330 is preferably adapted to the diameter of the bolt 91. The opening 331 is preferably round. The diameter of the opening is preferably approximately equal to the diameter of the bolt. This ensures that the edge element 87 is fixed with respect to the connecting element 320. Movement of the edge element 87 in the longitudinal direction of the connecting element 320 is thus prevented. In one embodiment, the opening 331 in the projection 330 and/or in the connecting element 320 is a threaded hole. The suspension arrangements which are used at the two ends of the connecting element 320, and in particular the slot-shaped openings 324,325 in the connecting element 320 and the non-damping suspension arrangement there, ensure that relative thermal expansion is possible without undesirable stress being caused in the edge element 87.

Of course, other embodiments are conceivable. It is for example possible to use one fixed connection and one sliding connection. Other embodiments comprise a single fixed connection and a plurality of sliding connections.

A possible embodiment of a suspension arrangement which can be used at the two ends uses the clamping parts which are illustrated in Fig. 9a and Fig. 9b. Fig. 9a shows a perspective view of a clamping part 301. Fig. 9b shows a cross section of Fig. 9a.

The clamping part 301 is provided with two spaced-apart openings 310, 307. One opening 307 is provided with a threaded bush 303, which extends outwards from an outer surface 302 of the clamping part 301. The threaded bush 303 has an internal screw thread. The outer circumference of the threaded bush 303 comprises a circular part 305 and a straight part 306. Such an embodiment reduces wear in the edge of the hole of the connecting element. Of course, other forms are conceivable. The outer surface 308 of the threaded bush 303 is arranged at a distance H from the outer surface 302 of the clamping part 301. At the other opening 310, the clamping part is provided with a larger opening 311 which has a stop 312 and is arranged concentrically with respect to the opening 310. Again referring to Fig. 4, the clamping part 301 illustrated in Fig. 9 can be used as follows. Two clamping parts 301 are used for each suspension arrangement. At the side of the connecting element 320, the threaded bush 303 of a clamping part 301 is arranged in the opening 324 of the connecting element 320. Opening 310 is then in line with opening 325. On the bottom side of the connecting element 320, the threaded bush of a clamping part 301 is arranged in the adjacent opening 325. The opening 310 of the bottom clamping part is then in line with opening 324. In other words, the two clamping parts 301 are rotationally symmetrically fitted around the connecting element 320. In this case, each opening 324,325 of the connecting element is provided with a threaded bush. The top and bottom clamping part 301 can in this case be secured by means of a bolt which passes from the bottom side of the connecting element 320 through the opening 324. The edge element can subsequently be secured in a simple manner by passing the securing element 91, such as a bolt 91, through the opening 325. In this manner, a relatively simple suspension arrangement is produced between the edge element 87 and the connecting element 320. As has already been mentioned above, the threaded bush 303 preferably has a height which is greater than the depth of the openings 324, 325 in the connecting element 320. As a result thereof, clamping of the suspension arrangement to the connecting element 320 is prevented. The slot- shaped holes 324,325 ensure that expansion in the longitudinal direction of the connecting element 320 is possible.

In this embodiment, the slot-shaped holes form a guide for the permissible displacement of the suspension arrangement produced. It will be clear that several kinds of guide can be used and that connecting element 320 itself can also be a guiding element.

An alternative embodiment of a suspension arrangement 120 of an edge element 127 to a construction is illustrated in Fig. 5. A connecting element 143, comprising an L- shaped profiled section with a horizontal part 144 and a vertical part 145, is connected to a coupling part 160. The coupling part 160 may be connected to a construction (not shown) in a known manner. At one end thereof, the connecting element 143 is provided with two slot-shaped openings 142. The suspension arrangement between the edge element 127 and the connecting element 143 is produced as follows.

A plate part 150 is provided on the bottom side of the connecting element 143. The plate part 150 comprises two openings 154 arranged at a distance from one another. The openings comprise threaded bushes 153 extending from an outer side 151 of the plate part. As has already been described, the height of the threaded bushes 153 is greater than the depth of the slot-shaped holes 142 in order to prevent the suspension arrangement from being clamped - and thus to allow expansion in the longitudinal direction.

An additional opening 152 is also provided in the centre of the outer surface 151. The additional opening can be used to connect the plate part 150 to the connecting element. The plate part 150 can thus be prefitted to the connecting element. This may be done in several different ways. Preferably, an additional opening 161 is provided in the connecting element 143, so that a securing element can be used to attach the plate part 150 to the connecting element 143. The additional opening may be slot-shaped to allow expansion of the connecting element 143 in the longitudinal direction.

Two transfer means 138 are fitted on the top side of the connecting element 143. In the illustrated embodiment, the transfer means 138 are flanged bushes 138, comprising a tube part 139 and a flange 140. An opening is provided in the tube part and the flange. The opening of the flanged bushes 38 is brought in line with the openings 142, 153 of the connecting element 143 and the plate part 150.

Two holes 129 are provided in the edge element 127. The holes 129 can be arranged in line with the holes of the flanged bushes 138. In this case, the sleeve part of the tube part 139 is accommodated in the hole 129 of the edge element 127.

An additional plate part 131 comprising two holes 132 is arranged on top of the edge element 127. The holes 132 are in turn arranged in line with the other holes 129, 154. Two securing elements 135, such as for example bolts with a head 136, can be passed through the holes from the top of the structure 120. The bolts are in this case tightened in the threaded bushes 153 of the bottom plate part 150.

Preferably, the transfer means 138 is designed such that a contact part 139 of the transfer means 138 can be introduced into the hole 129 of the edge element 127 with a tight fit. Due to the contact part 139 being in close contact with the hole 129 of the edge element 127, forces can readily be transmitted. The contact part 139 and the hole 129 are thus prevented from hitting each other. The risk of damage of die relatively fragile edge element 127 is thus reduced. In addition, the contact part may have a relatively large cross section. This increases the surface area which can transmit forces and stresses to the edge element 127. The stresses in the edge element 127 are thus reduced, which prevents the risk of damage to the edge element 127.

It will be clear to those skilled in the art diat many alternatives are possible for the above-described suspension arrangements between an edge element and a construction. Fig. 6, for example, shows an alternative embodiment of the suspension arrangement illustrated in Fig. 5. The suspension arrangement 170 illustrated here comprises a connecting element 203 with a horizontal part 204 and a vertical part 205. The connecting element 203 is connected to a coupling part 210. The coupling part 210 and die connecting element 203 form a frame 203,210, which can subsequently be connected to a construction again.

The connecting element 203 comprises two openings 182 which are slot-shaped. At the bottom of the connecting element 203, a plate part 193 with two openings 194 is arranged. Two threaded bushes 195 extend from the outer surface 196 of the plate part

193. The threaded bushes are provided in line with the openings 194. An additional opening 197 is provided for attaching/coupling/suspending/engaging/pushing/ guiding/sliding of die plate part 193 to an opening 211 of the connecting element 203 in a manner as has already been described above. Alternatively, it is also possible for the design of the opening 197 to be slot-shaped, and that of opening 211 to be round. It will be clear to those skilled in the art that such an embodiment is equivalent to the variant described above.

Transfer means 188 are again placed on the openings 182 in the connecting element 203. The transfer means 188 comprises a tubular part 190 and a flange-shaped part 189. The transfer means is also provided with an opening extending in the longitudinal direction. This opening can be placed in line with the openings 182 of the connecting element.

The edge element 177 comprises two holes 169. The edge element 177 can be placed onto the connecting element 203. In this case, the holes 169 are arranged in line with the openings of the transfer means 188. The tubular parts 190 of the transfer means 188 are in this case at least partially accommodated in the holes 169 of the edge element 177.

Two cover parts 171 with an opening 172 can be placed on top of the edge element. Securing elements 175 can again be passed through from the top side. The securing elements can be fastened to the plate part 196. The securing element 175 may be a bolt.

The head of the bolt may be tapered, so that it can be countersunk into the tapering opening 172 of the cover part 171.

Fig. 7 shows a possible embodiment of the suspension arrangement 220 of the bottom side 228 of the edge element 226 on the construction. In this case, use is made of securing parts 230. The securing part 230 comprises an L-shaped profiled section having a horizontal part 232 and a vertical part 321. In the vertical part, two openings

233 are provided. The openings 233 are slots. In the horizontal part 232, an opening

234 is provided. The opening 234 is slot-shaped.

On its bottom side 228, the edge element 226 has three openings 240. hi these openings, a transfer means 239 can be arranged. The opening 234 of the L-shaped profiled section 230 can be placed on the transfer means 239. In the opening 234 of the L-shaped profiled section 230, an additional transfer means is provided.

From the bottom side of the structure, a securing element 244, such as a bolt 244, can be fastened. The bolt can be passed through a ring 243. Subsequently, the bolt is passed through the opening in the transfer means 239 placed in the hole 240. Subsequently, the bolt is passed through the opening of the transfer means 238 placed in the slot 234. Finally, the bolt 244 is secured by means of a nut 237.

The transfer means 239,238 ensure that the suspension arrangement is brought about without clamping in the L-shaped profiled section. The suspension arrangement, in this case in particular the bolt 244, can move with respect to the slot 234, in such a way that relative thermal expansion is possible.

Fig. 8 shows an alternative embodiment of the suspension arrangement illustrated in Fig. 7. Identical parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the embodiment illustrated here, an alternative securing part 250 is mainly used. The securing part 250 illustrated here comprises an L-shaped profiled section, the vertical part of which has two slots 253 arranged one above the other. These slots can be used to connect the securing part 250 to a construction.

In addition, Fig. 8 shows the various parts which are used in Fig. 7 in greater detail. Thus, for example, the ring 243 with opening 263 is shown and it can also be seen how the transfer means 238,239 can be designed. The transfer means 238,239 comprise a tubular part 265,275 and a flange-shaped part 266,276. The transfer means 238,239 each have an opening 267,277 for passing through the securing means. An additional ring 245 is also arranged between the transfer means 239 and the bottom side of the securing part 250.

Fig. 11a and Fig. lib show a sectional view and a perspective view of alternative embodiments. The assembly illustrated here comprises a coupling part 458 which is attached to a construction (not shown). A connecting element 462 is attached to the coupling part 458. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 462 is a flat plate, provided with two rectangular holes. The opening extends in the longitudinal direction L of the connecting element.

At the top of the edge element, a clamping plate 468 is arranged, which is provided with a transfer means for transmitting forces. The transfer means is placed in a hole in the edge element. On the bottom of the edge element 457, an intermediate piece 471 is arranged. The intermediate piece is designed to keep the connecting element at a distance from the edge element. The intermediate piece can also be designed to engage with the edge element in a clamping manner. The intermediate piece 471 is arranged on the connecting element 462, with a slide plate 461 being provided between the intermediate piece 471 and the connecting element 462 in this embodiment. The slide plate is designed to reduce the sliding resistance of the intermediate piece on the connecting element. The slide plate is also designed to prevent wear to the intermediate piece or the connecting element as a result of friction. The slide plate thus ensures that corrosion on these parts is prevented or at least reduced. The slide plate can be made from hard fabric (for example phenolic cotton) or from a thermoplastic, such as POM, HDPE or PA. Other materials are also conceivable.

On the bottom of the connecting element, a flange part 463, in the illustrated embodiment a plate, is provided. In the rectangular slots of the connecting element 462, spacer 441 are provided. The spacer 441 are placed between the flange part and the intermediate piece and keep these at a relative distance with respect to one another.

In the illustrated embodiment, the securing element 465, in this case a bolt, is fitted from the bottom side of the assembly upwards. In this case, the bolt engages with the top clamping plate 468. To this end, the clamping plate may be provided with means which are suitable for this purpose, such as for example an internal screw thread. The screw thread of the bolt thus engages with the internal screw thread of the top clamping plate.

When the bolt 465 is being tightened, the top clamping plate 468, the intermediate piece 461 and the flange part 463 will be firmly pressed together, hi this case, the edge element 457 is also being clamped in. The spacer, in the illustrated embodiment a spacing block, has a height which is greater than the thickness of the connecting element 462. The difference in height may, for example, be approximately 1 mm. The spacing block here forms a spacer between the flange part and the intermediate piece. As a result, the flange part and the intermediate piece will only bear against one another around connecting element 462, without engaging the latter in a clamping manner. A sliding displacement of the flange part 463 and the intermediate piece 461 is thus still possible. As a result thereof, the edge element has some play in the longitudinal direction of the bolt 465. This ensures that the edge element 457 is fixedly attached to the connecting element, without the connecting element being clamped in. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 462 is engaged in such a manner that a sliding movement is still possible after engagement. This results in a suspension arrangement wherein a number of degrees of freedom are completely limited, but wherein freedom is partly possible in at least two directions.

With this suspension arrangement, in combination with the slot-shaped openings provided in the connecting element 462 and extending in the longitudinal direction L, a relative expansion of the connecting element 462 in the longitudinal direction thereof with respect to the edge element 457 is made possible. The relative expansion may be caused by variations in temperature, due to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the edge element differing from that of the connecting element and the construction. As there is no clamping connection between the connecting element 462 and the edge element 457, (limited) movement of the suspension arrangement in the slots of the connecting element 462 is readily possible. The edge element 457 will thus be deformed to a relatively lesser degree, if at all, as a result of which no additional stress will be produced in the material. The service life of the edge element 457 is thus relatively long and the aesthetic appearance of the edge element 457 is ensured.

It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to that which has been described above and that several equivalent embodiments of the invention are possible. For example, it is possible to swap the embodiments of various components illustrated in the figures with one another. It will be clear to those skilled in the art that where bolts and nuts have been used, the same result can be achieved using threaded bushes or threaded ends. The securing systems for the top side of an edge element are interchangeable with the securing systems for the bottom side of the edge element.