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 lever 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 in which the foot peg does not support the foot of the user of the vehicle; a first resilient member adapted to retain the foot peg in the first state; and a lever 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 lever type locking member maintains the foot peg in the second state, the locking member comprising: an actuating member, a locking plate, a second connecting pin, a third connecting pin, and a second resilient member; the actuating member being connected to the locking plate vide the second connecting pin and the third connecting pin; the second resilient member being adapted to retain the locking member in the fourth state.

[008] In an embodiment of the invention, the bracket element comprises: a first wall member 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 a first aperture, a second aperture, and a third aperture; the third wall member comprising a fourth aperture; the first aperture and the fourth aperture receiving the foot peg and a first connecting pin thereby pivotally coupling the foot peg to the bracket element; the second aperture and the third aperture receiving the lever type locking member, thereby coupling the lever type locking member to the bracket element.

[009] In an embodiment of the invention, the first resilient member comprises a first arm portion, a second arm portion, and a first 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 first 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 and a seventh aperture; the second elongated arm comprising an eighth aperture; the sixth aperture and the eighth aperture receiving the foot peg and the first connecting pin thereby pivotally coupling the foot peg to the bracket element; and the seventh aperture receiving the locking member when the foot peg is in the second state.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of: the actuating member of the locking member being located on a first side of the second wall member; the locking plate of the locking member being located on a second side of the second wall member; the second connecting pin traversing through the second aperture of the second wall member thereby connecting the actuating member and the locking plate at a first location; and the third connecting traversing through the third aperture of the second wall member thereby connecting the actuating member and the locking plate at a second location.

[0012] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the second resilient member comprises a fifth arm portion, a sixth arm portion, and a second coil portion sandwiched between the fifth arm portion and the sixth arm portion, the fifth arm portion being in abutting relation with the bracket element, the sixth arm portion being connected to at least one of the actuating member and the locking plate, and the second coil portion being positioned to be concentric around the second connecting pin.

[0013] In still another embodiment of the invention, at least one of the second aperture and the third aperture being in the form of an elongated aperture, allowing the actuating member of the locking member to exhibit at least one of a sliding movement and a pivotal movement with regard to the bracket element.

[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, the bracket element comprises a first retaining member adapted to retain the first arm portion of the first resilient member.

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, there a main frame a foot support structure mounted to the main frame and located below the seat unit, 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 in which the foot peg does not support the foot of the user of the vehicle; a first resilient member adapted to retain the foot peg in the first state; and a lever 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 lever type locking member maintains the foot peg in the second state, the locking member comprising: an actuating member, a locking plate, a second connecting pin, a third connecting pin, and a second resilient member; the actuating member being connected to the locking plate vide the second connecting pin and the third connecting pin; the second resilient member being adapted to retain the locking member in the fourth state.

[0016] One of the advantages of the invention provides lever-type locking member that provides less physical energy while opening/unlocking and closing/locking the foot supporting structure.

[0017] Another advantage of the invention provides more economical manufacturing of the foot support structure.

[0018] Yet another embodiment of the invention provides less complex foot supporting structure.

[0019] Another advantage of the invention provides a lever-type locking member offers a quick and secure locking mechanism.

[0020] Another advantage of the invention provides an enhanced overall reliability of the foot support structure and the lever, when engaged, effectively maintains the foot peg in a stable and locked position, preventing unintended movements and ensuring consistent support.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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:
[0023] 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:

[0024] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view of a foot supporting structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] Figure 3 illustrates a bracket in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0027] Figure 4 illustrates a first connecting pin in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0028] Figure 5 illustrates a first resilient member in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

[0029] Figure 6 illustrates a foot peg in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0030] Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of a lever type locking member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0031] Figure 8 illustrates a side perspective view of a foot support structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0032] Figure 9 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention

[0033] Figure 10 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0034] 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:
[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] Generally, the foot supporting structure used to maintain the stability, balance, and proper alignment of the human foot. Due to the problems as discussed in background of present invention, there is introduced a foot supporting structure. Figure 2,illustrates an exploded view of the foot support structure (100). The foot supporting structure (100) comprises a bracket element (102), a foot peg (104), a first resilient member (106), a lever type locking member (108), a bracket element (102) that pivotally coupled to the bracket element (104) and a first resilient member (106) adapted to retain the foot peg (104) in the first state.

[0049] The foot support structure (100) for a vehicle (10) is a comprehensive structure that optimize foot placement for users during vehicle operation. The foundation of the foot support structure (100) is the bracket element (102), strategically coupled to a first part (12) of the vehicle (10), providing a stable attachment point. Pivotal to the functionality is the foot peg (104), pivotally connected to the bracket element, allowing it to assume two distinct states. In one state, the foot peg provides support for the user's foot, while in the other state it retracts to discontinue foot support.

[0050] Integral to stability and the prevention of unintended movement, the first resilient member (106) serves as a meticulously engineered component, purposefully designed to secure the foot peg (104) in its supportive state. However, the key to controlled transitions between these states lies in the lever type locking member (108). This component is coupled to the bracket element (102) and operates in two distinct states the third state, where it secures the foot peg (104) in the supportive position, and the fourth state, where it maintains the foot peg in the non-supportive position.

[0051] The locking member (108) is a assembly comprising an actuating member (148), a locking plate (150), second connecting pin (152), third connecting pin (154), and a second resilient member (156). These components work collaboratively, with the actuating member connected to the locking plate (150) via the connecting pins. The second resilient member (156) reinforces stability when the foot peg (104) is in the non-supportive state.

[0052] Figure 3 illustrates a bracket element (102). The bracket element (102) comprises a first wall member (110) that is adeptly coupled to the first part (12) of the vehicle as shown in Figure 2. Extending from first wall member (110)is a second wall member (112) and a third wall member (114). The second wall member (112) and a third wall member (114) running substantially parallel to the first wall member (110)while maintaining a spaced-apart configuration. The second wall member (112) features three strategically positioned apertures a first aperture (116), a second aperture (118) and a third aperture (120). While, the third wall member (114) incorporates a fourth aperture (122).

[0053] The components are pivotal to the foot support structure's mechanical efficacy. The first aperture (116) and the fourth aperture (122) within the second wall member (112) and third wall member(114) respectively, serve as receiving points for the foot peg (104) and a first connecting pin (126) (as shown in Figure 2), enabling the pivotal coupling of the foot peg to the bracket element (102). This pivotal connection establishes the foundation for the foot peg's (104) controlled movement, allowing it to transition between states of foot support and non-support. Simultaneously, the second aperture (118) and the third aperture (120) within the second wall member (112) receive the lever type locking member (108), ensuring a secure coupling to the bracket element (102). The strategic placement facilitates the coordinated operation of the lever type locking member with the foot peg, controlling movements between the supportive and non-supportive states.

[0054] As shown in Figure 3, the bracket element (102) acts as the central structure, housing and organizing the first wall member (110), second wall member (112), third wall member (114), foot peg (104), first connecting pin (126 as shown in Figure 4), and lever type locking member (108) into a cohesive unit. The bracket element (102) provides a platform for the attachment and interaction of the components, ensuring structural integrity and functional efficiency. The resulting foot support structure (100) offers riders a seamless and controlled experience, where the bracket element (102)serves as the architectural backbone, harmonizing the movements of the foot peg (104) and the lever type locking member (108) for a versatile and secure foot support during vehicle operation.

[0055] Figure 5,illustrates a first resilient member (106) plays a pivotal role, introducing a sophisticated mechanism for retaining the foot peg (104) in its supportive state. This resilient member is ingeniously composed, featuring a first arm portion (128) and a second arm portion (130), with a first coil portion (132) sandwiched between them. The first arm portion (128) abuts the bracket element (102), creating a robust connection, while the second arm portion is connected to the foot peg (104). The first coil portion (132), positioned coaxially around the connecting pin (126), acts as a tension element, ensuring a secure yet flexible link between the bracket element and the foot peg. The arrangement of the first resilient member (106) establishes a connection between the bracket element (102) and the foot peg (104), allowing for controlled movement and providing stability during transitions between supportive and non-supportive states. The first resilient member (106), in conjunction with the bracket element (102), foot peg (104), and connecting pin (126), exemplifies the meticulous integration of components, showcasing how each part contributes to the overall functionality of the foot support structure (100).

[0056] Figure 6illustrates a foot peg (104). The elaborate construction of the foot support structure (100) for a vehicle (10), each component is intricately correlated to ensure a cohesive and functional whole. The bracket element (102), acting as the foundational support, seamlessly integrates with the first wall member (110), second wall member (112), and third wall member (114). This structural arrangement provides a robust platform for the pivotal components, particularly the foot peg (104).

[0057] The foot peg (104) itself is a nuanced structure with a foot contacting portion (134) and two elongated arms (136 and 138). The receiving portion (140) within the foot peg serves as housing for the first coil portion (132) of the first resilient member (106). This integration ensures a dynamic link between the foot peg and the first resilient member, allowing for controlled pivoting movements.

[0058] Moreover, the first resilient member (106), comprising a first arm portion (128), a second arm portion (130), and the first coil portion (132), plays a crucial role in stabilizing the foot peg. The first arm portion (128) firmly abuts the bracket element (102), while the second arm portion (130) is connected to the foot peg (104). This connection, along with the first coil portion (132) coaxially around the connecting pin (126), forms a resilient mechanism. It facilitates the controlled movement of the foot peg between supportive and non-supportive states and enhances the overall structural stability.

[0059] The interplay continues with the locking member (108), where the foot peg's structure reveals additional purpose. The seventh aperture (144) within the first elongated arm (136) of the foot peg accommodates the locking member when the foot peg is in the non-supportive state. This strategic placement ensures that the locking member seamlessly engages with the foot peg to secure it in the desired position.

[0060] As a cohesive whole, the foot support structure showcases an integrated design where each part contributes to the controlled movement and stability of the foot peg. The bracket element, foot peg, first resilient member, and locking member work in harmony, resulting in a robust and adaptable structure that enhances the rider's experience during vehicle operation. The correlation of these components ensures a seamless and efficient foot support structure for diverse riding scenarios.

[0061] Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of a lever type locking member. In the intricate assembly of the foot support structure (100) for a vehicle (10), the locking member (108) introduces a sophisticated control mechanism, where each part is meticulously positioned for optimal functionality. The actuating member (148) is strategically located on one side of the second wall member (112), while the locking plate (150) is positioned on the opposite side. This spatial arrangement ensures efficient coordination between the actuating member and the locking plate. To connect these elements, the second connecting pin (152) traverses through the second aperture (118) of the second wall member, linking the actuating member and the locking plate at a first location. Simultaneously, the third connecting pin (154) traverses through the third aperture (120) of the second wall member, connecting the actuating member and the locking plate at a second location. The dual connection imparts stability and controlled movement to the lever type locking member (108), allowing it to operate seamlessly in conjunction with the foot peg (104) and bracket element (102). The strategic placement and interconnection of the actuating member (148), locking plate (150), and connecting pins within the second wall member demonstrate a purposeful integration, creating a robust and synchronized structure that enhances the overall functionality of the foot support structure (100 As shown in Figure 8).

[0062] In the meticulous design of the foot support structure (100) for a vehicle (10), an additional layer of sophistication is introduced through the second resilient member (156), contributing to the overall stability and controlled operation of the locking member (108). This resilient member comprises a fifth arm portion (158) and a sixth arm portion (160), with a second coil portion (162) sandwiched between them. The fifth arm portion (158) abuts the bracket element (102), establishing a secure connection. The sixth arm portion (160) is strategically connected to either the actuating member (148) or the locking plate (150), ensuring an integrated linkage. The second coil portion (162) is positioned concentrically around the second connecting pin (152), forming a tension element to enhance the structural stability of the locking member.

[0063] Now, considering the locking member (108), the actuating member (148) is positioned on one side of the second wall member (112), while the locking plate (150) is on the opposite side. This spatial arrangement allows for efficient coordination and controlled movement. The second connecting pin (152) traverses through the second aperture (118) of the second wall member, connecting the actuating member and the locking plate at a first location. Simultaneously, the third connecting pin (154) traverses through the third aperture (120) of the second wall member, creating a dual connection between the actuating member and the locking plate, imparting stability and synchronized movement.

[0064] The interplay of these components is crucial for the overall functionality of the foot support structure (100). The bracket element (102) forms the structural foundation, with the fifth arm portion (158) of the second resilient member (156) providing additional support. The actuating member (148), locking plate (150), and connecting pins within the second wall member (112) work in harmony, ensuring the seamless operation of the locking member (108) in response to user inputs. The second resilient member (156) enhances the stability of the locking member (108), allowing it to maintain its position during transitions between supportive and non-supportive states. The concentric positioning of the second coil portion (162) around the second connecting pin (152) adds a layer of controlled tension, contributing to the reliability and adaptability of the entire foot support structure (100) during vehicle (10) operation.

[0065] Figure 9 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in locked position. In the locked position of the foot support structure (100), when the rider needs to keep the foot peg (104) in a supportive position, the lever type locking member (108) is engaged. In the locked state, the first resilient member (106) plays a crucial role in maintaining the foot peg in the desired position. The first resilient member (106), with its first arm portion (128), second arm portion (130), and first coil portion (132), exerts tension on the foot peg (104), ensuring that it remains securely in the supportive state. The first arm portion (128) abuts the bracket element (102), establishing a stable connection, while the second arm portion (130) is connected to the foot peg (104). The first coil portion (132), coaxially around the connecting pin (126), adds a resilient force, preventing inadvertent movement and maintaining the foot peg (104) in the supportive position.

[0066] Simultaneously, the lever type locking member (108) plays a pivotal role in reinforcing this locked position. The actuating member (148), located on one side of the second wall member (112), engages with the first aperture (116) of the foot peg. The elongated aperture, whether in the form of the second aperture (118) or the third aperture (120), allows the actuating member to exhibit sliding and pivotal movements with regard to the bracket element. This adaptability ensures a secure fit, adding an extra layer of stability.

[0067] Furthermore, the second resilient member (156) contributes to the locked position by reinforcing the connection between the actuating member and the locking plate. The fifth arm portion (158) of the second resilient member (156) abuts the bracket element, offering additional support, while the sixth arm portion (160) is connected to at least one of the actuating member and the locking plate (150). The second coil portion (162), concentrically positioned around the second connecting pin (152), adds tension and stability to the overall locking mechanism.

[0068] Figure 10 illustrates a sectional view of the foot support structure (100) in unlocked position. In the unlocked position of the foot support structure (100), the foot support structure (100) is designed to allow for dynamic movement and adaptability to different rider preferences. When the rider desires to retract the foot peg (104) to an unsupported position, the locking member (108) is disengaged, and the first resilient member (106) accommodates this transition.

[0069] Upon unlocking, the user may exert a force on the foot peg (104), causing the actuating member (148) of the locking member to disengage from the first aperture (116) of the foot peg (104). The apertures, whether in the form of the second aperture (118) or the third aperture (120), allows the actuating member (148) to exhibit both sliding and pivotal movements with regard to the bracket element (102). This dynamic interaction facilitates a smooth release of the foot peg (104).

[0070] The first resilient member (106), consisting of the first arm portion (128), second arm portion (130), and first coil portion (132), accommodates the movement by providing controlled resistance. As the foot peg (104) moves from the locked supportive position to the unlocked, non-supportive position, the first resilient member (106) allows for a controlled and gradual release, ensuring that the transition is both smooth and secure.

[0071] Simultaneously, the second resilient member (156) plays a role in facilitating the movement. The sixth arm portion (160), connected to at least one of the actuating member and the locking plate (150), allows for flexibility during the unlocking process. The second coil portion (162), concentrically positioned around the second connecting pin (152), provides tension that aids in smoothly releasing the lever type locking member (108).

[0072] In an embodiment of the invention, the unlocked position of the foot support structure (100) demonstrates a well-coordinated interplay of the bracket element (102), first resilient member (106) and second resilient member (156), foot peg (104), and lever type locking member (108). The elongated aperture's adaptability and the controlled resilience offered by the first resilient member (106) and second resilient member (156) ensure a seamless transition from a locked, supportive position to an unlocked, non-supportive position, providing riders with the flexibility and comfort to adjust their foot support during vehicle operation.

[0073] One of the advantages of the invention provides lever-type locking member that provides less physical energy while opening/unlocking and closing/locking the foot supporting structure.

[0074] Another advantage of the invention provides more economical manufacturing of the foot support structure.

[0075] Yet another embodiment of the invention provides less complex foot supporting structure.

[0076] Another advantage of the invention provides a lever-type locking member offers a quick and secure locking mechanism.

[0077] Another advantage of the invention provides an enhanced overall reliability of the foot support structure and the lever, when engaged, effectively maintains the foot peg in a stable and locked position, preventing unintended movements and ensuring consistent support.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.
, 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 in which the foot peg (104) does not support the foot of the user of the vehicle (10);
a first resilient member (106) adapted to retain the foot peg (104) in the first state; and
a lever 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 lever type locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the second state,
the locking member (108) comprising:
an actuating member (148), a locking plate (150), a second connecting pin (152), a third connecting pin (154), and a second resilient member (156);
the actuating member (148) being connected to the locking plate (150) vide the second connecting pin (152) and the third connecting pin (154);
the second resilient member (156) being adapted to retain the locking member (108) in the fourth state.

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), a second aperture (118), and a third aperture (120);
the third wall member (114) comprising a fourth aperture (122);
the first aperture (116) and the fourth aperture (122) receiving the foot peg (104) and a first connecting pin (126) thereby pivotally coupling the foot peg (104) to the bracket element (102);
the second aperture (118) and the third aperture (120) receiving the lever type locking member (108), thereby coupling the lever type locking member (108) to the bracket element (102).

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 first 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 first 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) and a seventh aperture (144);
the second elongated arm (138) comprising an eighth aperture (146);
the sixth aperture (142) and the eighth aperture (146) receiving the foot peg (104) and the first connecting pin (126) thereby pivotally coupling the foot peg (104) to the bracket element (102); and
the seventh aperture (144) 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 5, wherein at least one of:
the actuating member (148) of the locking member (108) being located on a first side of the second wall member (112);
the locking plate (150) of the locking member (108) being located on a second side of the second wall member (112);
the second connecting pin (152) traversing through the second aperture (118) of the second wall member (112) thereby connecting the actuating member (148) and the locking plate (150) at a first location; and
the third connecting pin (154) traversing through the third aperture (120) of the second wall member (112) thereby connecting the actuating member (148) and the locking plate (150) at a second location.

6. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second resilient member (156) comprises a fifth arm portion (158), a sixth arm portion (160), and a second coil portion (162) sandwiched between the fifth arm portion (158) and the sixth arm portion (160), the fifth arm portion (158) being in abutting relation with the bracket element (102), the sixth arm portion (160) being connected to at least one of the actuating member (148) and the locking plate (150), and the second coil portion (162) being positioned to be concentric around the second connecting pin (152).

7. The foot support structure (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein at least one of the second aperture (118) and the third aperture (120) being in the form of an elongated aperture, allowing the actuating member (148) of the locking member (108) to exhibit at least one of a sliding movement and a pivotal movement with regard to the bracket element (102).

8. 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).

9. A vehicle (10) comprising:
a main frame (22)
a foot support structure (100) mounted to the main frame (22) and located below the seat unit, 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 in which the foot peg (104) does not support the foot of the user of the vehicle (10);
a first resilient member (106) adapted to retain the foot peg (104) in the first state; and
a lever 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 lever type locking member (108) maintains the foot peg (104) in the second state,
the locking member (108) comprising:
an actuating member (148), a locking plate (150), a second connecting pin (152), a third connecting pin (154), and a second resilient member (156);
the actuating member (148) being connected to the locking plate (150) vide the second connecting pin (152) and the third connecting pin (154);
the second resilient member (156) being adapted to retain the locking member (108) in the fourth state.