Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

A FOOT SUPPORT STRUCTURE

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED, an Indian Company at: The Grand Plaza, Plot No.2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase -II, New Delhi, India, 110 070

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[001] The present subject matter relates generally to foot support structure. More particularly the present invention relates to a passenger foot support structure assembly with a plunger type locking member

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] A foot support structure in a vehicle, also known as an occupant footrest or foot support structure and is a crucial component to provide a comfortable and stable platform for the feet of the vehicle's occupant. Typically the foot support structure integrated into the framework of motorcycles, scooters, and other two-wheeled or multi-wheeled vehicles. Typically, vehicles capable of carrying at least one passenger including motorcycles and scooters are provided with an occupant foot support structure extending in a vehicle width direction from both sides of a body frame thereof. Said occupant foot support structure serves to provide comfortable resting position for feet of the occupant.

[003] Typically, the foot support structure can be a fixed structure or a movable structure which can be operated in two states i.e. a first state and a second state. First state is a state in which the foot supporting structure moves from A point to B point and in the second state the foot supporting structure moves from B point to A point. The existing movable structures often pose challenges for users, requiring significant physical effort to operate when move from m Point A to B or vice versa.

[004] Therefore, the existing movement assisting mechanisms of the foot supporting structure are more complex, costly and less durable.

[005] Thus, there exists a need to provide a foot supporting structure having a movement assisting mechanisms which can be semi-automated, less complex (simplified in manufacturing), more economical and more durable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[006] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[007] In an aspect of the invention, there is provided a foot support structure of a vehicle, comprising: a bracket element coupled to a first part of the vehicle; a foot peg pivotally coupled to the bracket element, the foot peg adapted to be operated in a first state in which the foot peg supports a foot of a user of the vehicle and a second state; a connecting pin pivotally coupling the foot peg to the bracket element; a first resilient member adapted to retain the foot peg in the first state; and a plunger type locking member coupled to the bracket element and adapted to be operated in a third state in which the locking member maintains the foot peg in the first state and in a fourth state in which the locking member maintains the foot peg in the second state, the plunger type locking member being separate from the connecting pin.

[008] In an embodiment of the invention, the bracket element comprises: a first wall member (110) adapted to be coupled to the first part of the vehicle; a second wall member extending from the first wall member; a third wall member extending from the first wall member, the third wall member being substantially parallel to the second wall member, the third wall member being spaced apart from the second wall member; the second wall member comprising the first aperture and the second aperture; the third wall member comprising the third aperture, the fourth aperture, and the fifth aperture.

[009] In an embodiment of the invention, the first resilient member comprises a first arm portion, a second arm portion, and a coil portion sandwiched between the first arm portion and the second arm portion, the first arm portion being in abutting relation with the bracket element, the second arm portion being connected to the foot peg and the coil portion being coaxial around the connecting pin.

[0010] In another embodiment of the invention, the foot peg comprises: a foot contacting portion; a first elongated arm extending from the foot contacting portion; a second elongated arm extending from the foot contacting portion; the second elongated arm being separated from the first elongated arm by a receiving portion, the receiving portion accommodating the coil portion of the first resilient member; the first elongated arm comprising a sixth aperture; the second elongated arm comprising a seventh aperture and an eighth aperture; the sixth aperture and the seventh aperture receiving the foot peg and the connecting pin thereby pivotally coupling the foot peg to the bracket element; and the eighth aperture aligned with the fifth aperture and receiving the locking member when the foot peg is in the second state.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention, the locking member comprises: a first segment comprising a first end, a second end, a first intermediate portion disposed between the first end and the second end, and an actuating member projecting from the first end; a second segment comprising a third end, a fourth end, and a second intermediate portion; and a third segment connecting the second end of the first segment and the third end of the second segment.

[0012] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first end of the first segment of the locking member being located on a first side of the bracket element; the actuating member of the first segment of the locking member being located on the first side of the bracket element; the second end of the first segment of the locking member being located on a second side of the bracket element; the first intermediate portion of the first segment of the locking member traverses through the first aperture and the third aperture provided in the bracket element; the third end of the second segment of the locking member being located on the second side of the bracket element; the fourth end of the second segment of the locking member being engaged in the eighth aperture of the foot peg when the foot peg is in the second state; the second intermediate portion of the second segment of the locking member traverses through the fifth aperture of the bracket element; and the third segment of the locking member being located on the second side of the bracket element.

[0013] In still another embodiment of the invention, the locking member comprises a second resilient member disposed between the actuating member and at least one of the second wall member of the bracket element and third wall member of the bracket element, the second resilient member being adapted to retain the locking member in the fourth state.

[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second resilient member is coaxial around the first intermediate portion of the first segment of the locking member.

[0015] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the bracket element comprises a first retaining member adapted to retain the first arm portion of the first resilient member.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprises a main frame supporting at least front ground engaging member, a power unit and a seat unit, at least one rear ground engaging member located below the seat a foot support structure of a vehicle connected to the main frame, the foot support structure comprising a bracket element coupled to a first part of the vehicle; a foot peg pivotally coupled to the bracket element, the foot peg adapted to be operated in a first state in which the foot peg supports a foot of a user of the vehicle and a second state; a connecting pin pivotally coupling the foot peg to the bracket element; a first resilient member adapted to retain the foot peg in the first state; and a plunger type locking member coupled to the bracket element and adapted to be operated in a third state in which the locking member maintains the foot peg in the first state and in a fourth state in which the locking member maintains the foot peg in the second state, the plunger type locking member being separate from the connecting pin.

[0017] One of the advantages of the invention provides plunger-type locking member that provides less physical energy while opening/unlocking and closing/locking the foot supporting structure.

[0018] Another advantage of the invention provides more economical manufacturing of the foot support structure.

[0019] Yet another embodiment of the invention provides less complex foot supporting structure.

[0020] Another advantage of the invention provides a plunger-type locking member offers a quick and secure locking mechanism.

[0021] Another advantage of the invention provides an enhanced overall reliability of the foot support structure and the plunger, when engaged, effectively maintains the foot peg in a stable and locked position, preventing unintended movements and ensuring consistent support.

[0022] Another advantage of the invention is that the unlocking and locking process is straightforward, ensuring an efficient transition between the foot support states. Users can easily adjust the foot peg position to suit their comfort and riding preference.

[0023] Still another advantage of the invention is to incorporate a user-friendly actuating member and unlocking mechanism, making it easy for riders to control the foot support structure without the need for complex adjustments.

[0024] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the foot support structure is seamlessly integrated into the vehicle's main frame, offering adaptability for use across different types of vehicles.

[0025] All of the aforesaid advantages also contribute to a reduction in a cost of the vehicle, a reduction in a weight of the vehicle, an ease of assembling the seat opening and closing mechanism on the vehicle, etc.

[0026] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[0027] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[0028] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0029] Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view of a foot support structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0030] Figure 3 illustrates a bracket element in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0031] Figure 4 illustrates a foot peg in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

[0032] Figure 5 illustrates a first resilient member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0033] Figure 6 illustrates a connecting pin in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0034] Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of a plunger type locking member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0035] Figure 8 illustrates a front perspective view of a foot support structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0036] Figure 9 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention

[0037] Figure 10 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention

[0038] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description of the Invention:
[0039] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0040] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0041] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0042] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0043] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0044] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[0045] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0046] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[0047] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0048] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] The terms “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

[0050] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, cover and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two wheeled vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[0051] Now referring to Figure1, there is illustrated a side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle (10) comprises a main frame (22), a front fender (32), a front ground engaging member (24), a rear ground engaging member (26), a headlight (30), a steering handle bar (28), a power unit not shown, a seat (28), a swing arm (34), a rear cushion (36), a rear fender (38), a tail light (40) and a foot support structure (100). It may be noted that the vehicle (10) may include other parts which may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence not shown and described. The main frame (22) is connected to the front ground engaging member (24) and the swing arm (34). The swing arm (34) is further connected to the rear ground engaging member (26). The foot support structure (100) is connected to the main frame (22) a shown in Figure 1. The main frame (22) supports at least front ground engaging member (24), a power unit and a seat unit (28). At least one rear ground engaging member (26) is located below the seat unit (28)a foot support structure (100) of a vehicle (10) connected to the main frame (22), the foot support structure (100).

[0052] In another embodiment of the invention first part (12) comprises a portion of main frame (22).

[0053] The foot support structure commonly comprises a bracket element, a foot peg, and associated mechanisms for adjustability. The bracket element is securely attached to a part of the vehicle, often the main frame. Figure 2 of the present invention illustrates an exploded view of a foot support structure, where the foot support structure comprises a bracket element (102), a foot peg (104), a first resilient member (106), a plunger type locking member (108) and a connecting pin (126). The bracket element (102) coupled to a first part (12) of the vehicle (10), pivotally coupled to the bracket element (102). The foot peg (104) being adapted to be operated in a first state in which the foot peg (104) supports a foot of a user of the vehicle (10) and a second state. The first resilient member (106) adapted to retain the foot peg (104) in the first state. The plunger type locking member (108) coupled to the bracket element (102) and adapted to be operated in a third state in which the locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the first state and in a fourth state in which the locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the second state. The connecting pin (126) pivotally coupling the foot peg (104) to the bracket element (102) and the plunger type locking member (108) is separate from the connecting pin (126).

[0054] The bracket element (102) in the foot support structure is a component with intricate details contributing to the functionality. The bracket element (102) comprises three main wall members as shown in Figure 3, the first wall member (110), the second wall member (112), and the third wall member (114). The first wall member (110) is adapted to be securely coupled to the first part (12) of the vehicle (10). The second wall member (112) extends from the first wall member (110), and the third wall member (114) also extends from the first wall member (110) while being substantially parallel to the second wall member (112) and spaced apart from it. Both the second wall member (112) and the third wall member (114) feature multiple apertures (first aperture (116), second aperture (118), third aperture (120), fourth aperture (122), and fifth aperture (124).

[0055] Now, considering the connections, the bracket element (102) is coupled to the first part (12) of the vehicle (10). The foot peg (104) is connected to the bracket element (102) via the connecting pin (126), offering pivotal movement independently of the plunger type locking member (108). The plunger type locking member (108) is coupled to the bracket element (102), allowing it to engage with the foot peg (104) and secure it in either the first state or the second state based on user preference. The resilient member (106) is integrated into the bracket element (102), ensuring it maintains the foot peg in the supportive state. The apertures in the second wall member (112) and the third wall member (114) possibly serve as points for adjustment or additional connection mechanisms, enhancing the overall adaptability and customization of the foot support structure. The pivotal and coupled connections, along with the apertures, collectively contribute to the seamless operation and user-controlled adjustments of the foot support structure during vehicle use.

[0056] In Figure 4, the detailed structure of the foot peg (104) reveals its pivotal role in the overall foot support structure. The foot peg comprises a foot contacting portion (134), first elongated arm (136), second elongated arm (138), and receiving portion (140), and a sixth aperture (142). The first elongated arm features the sixth aperture (142), strategically positioned to play a pivotal role in connecting the foot peg to the bracket element (102) through the connecting pin (126). The connection allows pivotal movement of the foot peg, ensuring user comfort and adaptability.

[0057] The second elongated arm introduces a seventh aperture (144), which is crucial for receiving the connecting pin (126), facilitating the pivotal coupling between the foot peg and the bracket element. Additionally, the second elongated arm includes an eighth aperture (146), aligned with the fifth aperture (124) in the bracket element. This alignment enables engagement with the plunger-type locking member (108) in the second state, providing a secure mechanism to hold the foot peg in place when the user desires an alternate foot position.

[0058] Moreover, the receiving portion (140) of the foot peg is strategically positioned to accommodate the coil portion (132) of the first resilient member (106), contributing to the structural integrity of the foot peg and providing a mechanism for retaining the foot peg in the first state.

[0059] In Figure 5, the first resilient member (106) is revealed as a crucial component within the foot support structure (100), offering elasticity and support for the foot peg (104). The first resilient member (106) comprises a first arm portion (128), a second arm portion (130), and a coil portion (132), strategically integrated for optimal functionality. The first arm portion(128) is positioned in abutting relation with the bracket element (102), providing a stable point of attachment. The connection serves as a pivotal point that allows controlled movement.

[0060] The second arm portion (130) is connected to the foot peg (104), establishing a link that facilitates the transmission of force and movement between the foot peg and the bracket element. The connection is essential for the coordinated operation of the foot support structure.

[0061] Crucially, the coil portion (132) is positioned between the first arm portion (128) and second arm portion (130) and maintains a coaxial arrangement around the connecting pin (126), as illustrated in Figure 6. The configuration ensures that the resilient member operates in a controlled manner. The coil portion's ability to absorb and release energy allows for flexibility, contributing to the overall comfort and adaptability of the foot support structure. This that the first resilient member efficiently supports the foot peg, providing stability during operation.

[0062] The connecting pin (126), as mentioned in the previous description, is pivotal in connecting the foot peg to the bracket element. The coaxial arrangement of the coil portion around the connecting pin indicates that it plays a central role in the controlled movement and elasticity provided by the first resilient member.

[0063] In Figure 7, the exploded view of the plunger-type locking member (108). The plunger-type locking member (108) comprises a first segment (148) and a second segment (158). The first segment (148) consists of a first end (150), a second end (152), and a first intermediate portion (154), with an actuating member (156) extending from the first end (150). The actuating member (156) plays a crucial role in manual operation, enabling users to engage and disengage the locking mechanism effectively. On the other hand, the second segment (158) features a third end (160), a fourth end (162), and a second intermediate portion (164), contributing to the structural integrity of the locking member (108).The connection is facilitated by a third segment (166), which links the second end (152) of the first segment (148) to the third end of the second segment (158). The connection is pivotal in maintaining the coherence of the locking member (108), ensuring it functions seamlessly during transitions between states in the foot support structure. The third segment third segment (166) acts as a bridge, allowing for synchronized movement between the two main segments, thereby dictating the locking and unlocking actions of the foot support structure (100).A second resilient member (168) positioned between the actuating member (156) and the locking member (108) serves a crucial role in enhancing resilience and stability. The second resilient member (168) contributes to the retention of the locking member (108) in the fourth state, adding an extra layer of security to the foot support structure (100) by preventing unintentional disengagement. Each individual component and connection plays a specific and integral role in ensuring the reliability and effective functionality of the plunger-type locking member within the foot support structure (100).

[0064] In the innovative foot support structure, the locking member (108) plays a pivotal role in facilitating secure and controlled positioning of the foot peg (104). The first segment (148) of the locking member exhibits a strategic arrangement: its first end (150) and the actuating member (156) are positioned on one side of the bracket element (102), while the second end (152) extends to the opposite side. The first segment is pivotally connected to the bracket element through the first intermediate portion (154), which traverses through the first aperture (116) and the third aperture (120) of the bracket element, allowing for pivotal movement.

[0065] The second segment (158) of the locking member further enhances the foot support structure’s functionality. The third end (160) is located on the same side as the first end of the first segment, while the fourth end (162) engages with the eighth aperture (146) of the foot peg (104) when it is in the second state. The engagement provides a secure locking mechanism for the foot peg. The second intermediate portion (164) of the second segment traverses through the fifth aperture (124) in the bracket element, contributing to the overall stability and control of the foot support structure.

[0066] Crucially, the third segment (166) of the locking member is located on the same side as the third end of the second segment, creating a cohesive and integrated structure. The arrangement and connections of these segments enable the actuating member (156) to control the positioning of the foot peg between the first and second states. The foot peg is coupled to the bracket element through the connecting pin (126) and pivotal movements are regulated by the locking member. The combination of components results in a sophisticated yet user-friendly foot support structure (100) (As shown in Figure 8), where the user can easily transition between different foot support states while ensuring stability and safety during vehicle operation.

[0067] Figure 9 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in locked position. The foot support structure (100) of the vehicle provides a secure and reliable mechanism for maintaining the foot peg (104) in either the first state, or the second state. When in the third state, the locking member (108) engages with the foot peg (104) and effectively secures it in the supporting position. The locking action is facilitated by the interplay of the first segment (148) and the second segment (158) of the locking member (108), with the actuating member (156) projecting from the first end (150) playing a key role. As the locking member (108) transitions to the fourth state, it ensures the foot peg (104) remains securely in the second state, preventing unintended movement. The structure incorporates a second resilient member (168) (As shown in Figure 7) to enhance stability, ensuring that the locking member remains steadfast in the fourth state. The innovative locking mechanism provides users with a dependable and easy-to-use solution for adjusting the foot support structure of the vehicle as needed.

[0068] Figure 10 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in unlocked position, the plunger-type locking member (108) allows for the flexible movement of the foot peg (104) within the foot support structure (100) of the vehicle. The first segment (148) of the locking member, featuring a first end (150) with an actuating member (156), is disengaged from the eighth aperture (146) in the foot peg (104). The disconnection permits free pivotal movement of the foot peg, enabling the transition between the first state, where the foot peg supports the user's foot, and the second state. The second segment (158), along with the third segment (166), remains detached from the foot peg, facilitating unrestricted movement. The unlocking process involves releasing the first end (150) and actuating member (156), allowing the foot peg to pivot about the connecting pin (126). This ensures a user-friendly and efficient operation, providing the necessary flexibility when transitioning between different states of the foot support structure.

[0069] In an embodiment of the invention, in the first state, the foot peg (104) being positioned to support the user's foot, serving as the default configuration when the foot peg (104) is not being adjusted or moved. The second state represents an alternate configuration of the foot peg (104), although specific details about this configuration are not provided. It can be inferred that the foot peg (104) assumes a different position or orientation distinct from its standard supportive stance.

[0070] In an embodiment of the invention, moving to the third state, the locking member (108) engages with the foot peg (104), effectively securing it in the supportive position. The locking action relies on the interplay between the first segment (148) and the second segment (158) of the locking member (108). The actuating member (156) projecting from the first end (150) is instrumental in this process, ensuring stability and preventing unintended movement of the foot peg (104).

[0071] In an embodiment of the invention, transitioning to the fourth state, the locking member (108) maintains its engagement with the foot peg (104), ensuring its secure placement in the alternate configuration (the second state) to prevent unintended movement. To enhance stability in this state, the structure incorporates a second resilient member (168). The second resilient member (168) complements the locking mechanism, providing additional support to keep the foot peg (104) securely in place. Overall, these mechanisms offer users a dependable and user-friendly solution for adjusting the foot support structure of the vehicle (10) as needed.

[0072] The interplay between the third and fourth states involves the locking member (108) transitioning from a state where it secures the foot peg (104) in the supporting position (third state) to a state where it ensures the foot peg (104) remains securely in the alternative position (fourth state). The transition is facilitated by the interaction of the first segment (148), second segment (158), and the actuating member (156) of the locking member (108), along with the additional support provided by the second resilient member (168). The locking mechanism provides a dependable and easy-to-use solution for adjusting the foot support structure (100) of the vehicle.

[0073] In another embodiment of the invention the vehicle (10) includes but not limited to scooter and motorcycle.

[0074] One of the advantages of the invention provides plunger-type locking member that provides less physical energy while opening/unlocking and closing/locking the foot supporting structure.

[0075] Another advantage of the invention provides more economical manufacturing of the foot support structure.

[0076] Yet another embodiment of the invention provides less complex foot supporting structure.

[0077] Another advantage of the invention provides a plunger -type locking member offers a quick and secure locking mechanism.

[0078] Another advantage of the invention provides an enhanced overall reliability of the foot support structure and the plunger, when engaged, effectively maintains the foot peg in a stable and locked position, preventing unintended movements and ensuring consistent support.

[0079] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0080] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
, C , Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A foot support structure (100) of a vehicle (10), comprising:
a bracket element (102) coupled to a first part (12) of the vehicle (10);
a foot peg (104) pivotally coupled to the bracket element (102), the foot peg (104) adapted to be operated in a first state in which the foot peg (104) supports a foot of a user of the vehicle (10) and a second state;
a connecting pin (126) pivotally coupling the foot peg (104) to the bracket element (102);
a first resilient member (106) adapted to retain the foot peg (104) in the first state; and
a plunger type locking member (108) coupled to the bracket element (102) and adapted to be operated in a third state in which the locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the first state and in a fourth state in which the locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the second state, the plunger type locking member (108) being separate from the connecting pin (126).

2. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bracket element (102) comprises:
a first wall member (110) adapted to be coupled to the first part (12) of the vehicle (10);
a second wall member (112) extending from the first wall member (110);
a third wall member (114) extending from the first wall member (110), the third wall member (114) being substantially parallel to the second wall member (112), the third wall member (114) being spaced apart from the second wall member (112);
the second wall member (112) comprising a first aperture (116) and a second aperture (118);
the third wall member (114) comprising a third aperture (120), a fourth aperture (122), and a fifth aperture (124).

3. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first resilient member (106) comprises a first arm portion (128), a second arm portion (130), and a coil portion (132) sandwiched between the first arm portion (128) and the second arm portion (130), the first arm portion (128) being in abutting relation with the bracket element (102), the second arm portion being connected to the foot peg (104) and the coil portion (132) being coaxial around the connecting pin (126).

4. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the foot peg (104) comprises:
a foot contacting portion (134);
a first elongated arm (136) extending from the foot contacting portion (134);
a second elongated arm (138) extending from the foot contacting portion (134); the second elongated arm (138) being separated from the first elongated arm (136) by a receiving portion (140), the receiving portion (140) accommodating the coil portion (132) of the first resilient member (106);
the first elongated arm (136) comprising a sixth aperture (142);
the second elongated arm (138) comprising a seventh aperture (144) and an eighth aperture (146);
the sixth aperture (142) and the seventh aperture (144) receiving the foot peg (104) and the connecting pin (126) thereby pivotally coupling the foot peg (104) to the bracket element (102); and
the eighth aperture (146) aligned with the fifth aperture (124) and receiving the locking member (108) when the foot peg (104) is in the second state.

5. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the locking member (108) comprises:
a first segment (148) comprising a first end (150), a second end (152), a first intermediate portion (154) disposed between the first end (150) and the second end (152), and an actuating member (156) projecting from the first end (150);
a second segment (158) comprising a third end (160), a fourth end (162), and a second intermediate portion (164); and
a third segment (166) connecting the second end (152) of the first segment (148) and the third end (160) of the second segment (158).

6. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein at least one of:
the first end (150) of the first segment (148) of the locking member (108) being located on a first side of the bracket element (102);
the actuating member (156) of the first segment (148) of the locking member (108)being located on the first side of the bracket element (102);
the second end (152) of the first segment (148) of the locking member (108) being located on a second side of the bracket element (102);
the first intermediate portion (154) of the first segment (148) of the locking member (108)traverses through the first aperture (116) and the third aperture (120) provided in the bracket element (102);
the third end (160) of the second segment (158) of the locking member (108)being located on the second side of the bracket element (102);
the fourth end (162) of the second segment (158) of the locking member (108)being engaged in the eighth aperture (146) of the foot peg (104) when the foot peg (104) is in the second state;
the second intermediate portion (164) of the second segment (158) of the locking member (108)traverses through the fifth aperture (124) of the bracket element (102); and
the third segment (166) of the locking member (108) being located on the second side of the bracket element (102).

7. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the locking member (108) comprises a second resilient member (168) disposed between the actuating member (156) and at least one of the second wall member (112) of the bracket element (102) and third wall member (114) of the bracket element (102), the second resilient member (168) being adapted to retain the locking member (108) in the fourth state.

8. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the second resilient member (168) is coaxial around the first intermediate portion (154) of the first segment(148) of the locking member (108).

9. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the bracket element (102) comprises a first retaining member (170) adapted to retain the first arm portion (128) of the first resilient member (106).

10. A vehicle (10) comprising:
a main frame (22)supporting at least front ground engaging member (24), , a power unit and a seat unit (28),
at least one rear ground engaging member (26) located below the seat
a foot support structure (100) of a vehicle (10) connected to the main frame (22), the foot support structure (100) comprising:
a bracket element (102) coupled to a first part (12) of the vehicle (10);
a foot peg (104) pivotally coupled to the bracket element (102), the foot peg (104) adapted to be operated in a first state in which the foot peg (104) supports a foot of a user of the vehicle (10) and a second state;
a connecting pin (126) pivotally coupling the foot peg (104) to the bracket element (102);
a first resilient member (106) adapted to retain the foot peg (104) in the first state; and
a plunger type locking member (108) coupled to the bracket element (102) and adapted to be operated in a third state in which the locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the first state and in a fourth state in which the locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the second state, the plunger type locking member (108) being separate from the connecting pin (126).