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

A VEHICLE

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 invention relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to the footboard structure of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] The existing vehicle footboard structure suffers from several drawbacks that can impact rider comfort, safety, and overall riding experience. One significant limitation is the lack of adjustability found in existing footboards, which typically offer a fixed platform for the rider's feet. The lack of adjustability can lead to discomfort, especially for riders with different preferences or body sizes.

[003] Moreover, conventional footboards often restrict foot positioning options, potentially causing fatigue during long rides. Additionally, these footboards may lack versatility, failing to support the rider's feet adequately in various directions or angles, thus limiting their ability to optimize posture and control. Safety concerns also arise as some footboards may not effectively shield the rider's legs from external hazards. Furthermore, the rigid footboards of existing footboards may not efficiently utilize space, leading to restrictions in the rider's freedom of movement or interfering with other vehicle components. The inflexibility in footboards further compounds these issues, making it challenging to customize footboards according to specific rider needs or vehicle configurations.

[004] Further, addressing these drawbacks, the present invention introduces a footboard structure that can overcome the above problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[005] 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.

[006] In an aspect of the invention, a vehicle comprises a footboard structure positioned between a handlebar and a seat in a vehicle length direction and below the seat in a vehicle height direction, the footboard structure being adapted to support at least a foot portion of a rider of the vehicle, a first foot supporting member positioned within the footboard structure, the first foot supporting member being movable between a first retracted position and a first fully extended position, the first foot supporting member being completely overlapped by the footboard structure in the first retracted position, and the first foot supporting member protruding beyond the footboard structure in a first vehicle width direction in the first fully extended position and a first retaining member for retaining the first foot supporting member at the first retracted position, the first fully extended position and at least one first position, the at least one first position being different from the first retracted position and the first fully extended position.

[007] In an embodiment of the invention, a second foot supporting member positioned within the footboard structure, the second foot supporting member being movable between a second retracted position and a second fully extended position, the second foot supporting member being completely overlapped by the footboard structure in the second retracted position and the second foot supporting member protruding beyond the footboard structure in a second vehicle width direction in the second fully extended position and a second retaining member for retaining the second foot supporting member at the second retracted position, the second fully extended position and at least one second position, the at least one second position being different from the second retracted position and the second fully extended position.

[008] In an embodiment of the invention the footboard structure comprises a top structural member supports at least a foot portion of a rider of the vehicle, a bottom structural member spaced apart from the top structural member in a vehicle height direction, a first side structural member placed along a first side of the top structural member and along a first side of the bottom structural member, the first side structural member comprising a first opening allowing the first foot supporting member to be positioned at the first fully extended position or the at least one first position; and a second side structural member placed along a second side of the top structural member and along a second side of the bottom structural member, the second side structural member comprising a second opening allowing the second foot supporting member to be positioned at the second fully extended position or the at least one second position.

[009] In an embodiment of the invention the first foot supporting member and the second foot supporting member being positioned between the top structural member, the bottom structural member, the first side structural member and the second side structural member.

[0010] In an embodiment of the invention the first foot supporting member being movable within a first channel member, the first channel member being located proximate to the first side structural member and between the top structural member and the bottom structural member, the second foot supporting member being movable within a second channel member, the second channel member being located proximate to the second side structural member and between the top structural member and the bottom structural member, the first foot supporting member and the second foot supporting member being positioned between the top structural member, the bottom structural member, the first side structural member, and the second side structural member.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention the first foot supporting member comprises a first footrest element, a first strengthening member attached to the first footrest element, a first bearing member projecting from a first surface of the first footrest element, a second bearing member projecting from a second surface of the first footrest element, the first bearing member and the second bearing member being slidably received by the first channel member; the second foot supporting member comprises a second footrest element, a second strengthening member attached to the second footrest element, a third bearing member projecting from a first surface of the second footrest element, a fourth bearing member projecting from a second surface of the second footrest element, the third bearing member and the fourth bearing member being slidably received by the second channel member; the first retaining member comprises a first spring ball plunger and a second spring ball plunger co-operating with the first channel member for retaining the first foot supporting member in the at least one first position; and the second retaining member comprises a third spring ball plunger and a fourth spring ball plunger co-operating with the second channel member for retaining the second foot supporting member in the at least one second position.

[0012] One of the advantages of the invention one of the primary advantages is its enhanced adjustability. Unlike traditional footboards that provide fixed platforms for the rider's feet, the present invention features movable members that allow for precise positioning according to the rider's preference and comfort level.

[0013] Another advantage of the invention is that with the ability of the footboard structure to extend beyond its initial boundaries.

[0014] Yet an advantage of the invention, is to provide a foot supporting members that are securely retained in both extended and retracted positions, ensuring stability and safety for the rider.

[0015] 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:
[0016] 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:

[0017] Figure 1 illustrates a left perspective view of the vehicle with a first foot supporting member (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0018] Figure 2 illustrates a right perspective view of the vehicle with a first foot supporting member (200) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0019] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the first foot supporting member (100) protruding beyond the footboard structure (16) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0020] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of the second foot supporting member (200) protruding beyond the footboard structure (16) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0021] Figure 5 illustrates a first foot supporting member (100) in open position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0022] Figure 6 illustrates a first foot supporting member (100) in closed position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0023] Figure 7 illustrates a second foot supporting member (200) in open position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0024] Figure 8 illustrates a second foot supporting member (200) in closed position in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Figure 9 illustrates a bottom view of the first foot supporting member (100) showing the first retracted position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] Figure 10 illustrates a side view of the first foot supporting member (100) with a first spring ball plunger in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0027] Figure 11 illustrates a bottom view of the second foot supporting member (200) showing the second retracted position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0028] Figure 12 illustrates a side view of the second foot supporting member (100) with a second spring ball plunger in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0029] Figure 13 illustrates an exploded view of first foot supporting member (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0030] Figure 14 illustrates an exploded view of second foot supporting member (200) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0031] Figure 15 illustrates a bottom closed view of a first foot supporting member (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0032] Figure 16 illustrates a bottom open view of a first foot supporting member (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0033] 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:
[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a vehicle (10) embodying various components. The central element is the main frame (not shown), providing structural support for the vehicle. Positioned towards the front is the front fender (not shown) and the front ground engaging member (12), likely a wheel or tire. At the rear, there is a rear ground engaging member (14), also likely a wheel or tire. Steering is facilitated by the steering handlebar (18), situated at the front. A power unit, though not depicted, would likely be housed within the vehicle to provide propulsion. The rider's comfort and stability are ensured by a seat (20), a main stand (24) and a rear cushion (26).

[0047] In an embodiment of the invention, the vehicle (10) further comprises a footboard structure (16) is positioned a handlebar (18) and a seat (20) in a vehicle length direction and below the seat (20) in a vehicle height direction, The footboard structure (16) spans between the front end structure (12) and the rear end structure (14), providing a platform for the rider's feet.

[0048] The footboard structure (16) is being adapted to support at least a foot portion of a rider of the vehicle. The vehicle further comprises a first foot supporting member (100) positioned within the footboard structure (16). Similarly, as shown in Figure 2 the vehicle further comprises a second foot supporting member (200) positioned within the footboard structure (16).

[0049] As depicted in Figure 3 the first foot supporting member (100) protruding beyond the footboard structure (16) in a first vehicle width direction (D1) in the first fully extended position. Similarly in Figure 4 the second foot supporting member (200) is protruding beyond the footboard structure (16) in a second vehicle width direction (D2) in the second fully extended position. and the second foot supporting member (200) protruding beyond the footboard structure (16) in a second vehicle width direction (D2) in the second fully extended position.

[0050] In an embodiment of the invention, the first foot supporting member (100) being movable between a first retracted position and a first fully extended position, the first foot supporting member (100) being completely overlapped by the footboard structure (16) in the first retracted position. Similarly, the second foot supporting member (200) being movable between a second retracted position and a first fully extended position, the second foot supporting member (200) being completely overlapped by the footboard structure (16) in the first retracted position.

[0051] As shown in Figure 15 an exploded view of first foot supporting member (100). The footboard structure (16) comprises a top structural member (82), a bottom structural member (84) and a first side structural member (86). The top structural member (82) providing support to at least a foot portion of a rider of the vehicle and a bottom structural member (84) that is spaced apart from the top structural member (82) in a vehicle height direction, a first side structural member (86) placed along a first side of the top structural member (82) and along a first side of the bottom structural member (84). The first side structural member (86) comprising a first opening (90) allowing the first foot supporting member (100) to be positioned at the first fully extended position or the at least one first position.

[0052] In an embodiment of the embodiment of the invention, at least one first position includes multiple possible positions for the first foot supporting member (100) beyond the retracted position. These positions may be intermediate states between fully retracted and fully extended, offering varying degrees of extension for the foot supporting member within the footboard structure (16).

[0053] Further, the first foot supporting member (100) comprises a first footrest element (106), a first strengthening member (108) attached to the first footrest element (106), a first bearing member (110) projecting from a first surface of the first footrest element (106), a second bearing member (112) projecting from a second surface of the first footrest element (106), the first bearing member (110) and the second bearing member (112) being slidably received by the first channel member (104).

[0054] However, when the rider applies outward force to open the first foot supporting member (100) as shown in Figure 7, causing the first foot supporting member (100) to extend from the footboard structure (16). This movement is facilitated by the sliding action of the first bearing members (110) and second bearing members (112) within the first channel member (104), allowing the footrest element (106) and first strengthening member (108) to extend outward. As the first foot supporting member (100) reaches its fully extended position, the spring-loaded retaining mechanism disengages from the channel member (104), ensuring unhindered movement. However, in Figure 8 when retracting the first foot supporting member (100) to the closed position, inward force is applied, causing the footrest element (106) to move closer to the footboard structure (16). The first bearing members (110) and second bearing members (112) slide in the opposite direction within the channel member (104), guiding the foot supporting member (100) securely into place. Once fully retracted, the first spring ball plunger (114) and a second spring ball plunger (116) engage with the channel member (104) again, locking the foot supporting member (100) in the closed position. This opening and closing mechanism offers riders the flexibility to adjust the foot support according to their comfort preferences, enhancing the overall riding experience.

[0055] As shown in Figure 11 and Figure 12, a first retaining member (102) (as shown above in Figure 15) comprises a first spring ball plunger (114) and a second spring ball plunger (116) co-operating with the first channel member (104) for retaining the first foot supporting member (100) in the at least one first position.

[0056] Figure 16 depicts an exploded view of second foot supporting member (200). On the other hand, the footboard structure (16) comprises a top structural member (82), a bottom structural member (84) and a first side structural member (86). The top structural member (82) providing support to at least a foot portion of a rider of the vehicle and a bottom structural member (84) that is spaced apart from the top structural member (82) in a vehicle height direction, the second side structural member (88) placed along a second side of the top structural member (82) and along a second side of the bottom structural member (84), the second side structural member (86) comprising a second opening (92) allowing the second foot supporting member (200) to be positioned at the second fully extended position or the at least one second position.

[0057] The second foot supporting member (200) comprises a second footrest element (206), a second strengthening member (208) attached to the second footrest element (106), a third bearing member (210) projecting from a first surface of the second footrest element (106), a fourth bearing member (212) projecting from a second surface of the second footrest element (206), the third bearing member (210) and the fourth bearing member (212) being slidably received by the second channel member (204).

[0058] In an embodiment of the embodiment of the invention, at least one second position includes multiple possible positions for the second foot supporting member (200) beyond the retracted position. These positions may be intermediate states between fully retracted and fully extended, offering varying degrees of extension for the foot supporting member within the footboard structure (16).

[0059] In an embodiment of the invention, the first foot supporting member (100) and the second foot supporting member (200) being positioned between the top structural member (82), the bottom structural member (84), the first side structural member (86), and the second side structural member (88).

[0060] Similarly in Figure 13 and Figure 14 a second retaining member (202) (as shown above in Figure 16) comprises a third spring ball plunger (214) and a fourth spring ball plunger (216) co-operating with the second channel member (204) for retaining the second foot supporting member (200) in the at least one second position.

[0061] Similarly, when the rider applies outward force to open the second foot supporting member (200) that follows a similar principle to that of the second foot supporting member (200) described earlier in Figure 9. When the rider applies outward force, initiating the extension of the foot supporting member (200) away from the footboard structure (16). This extension is facilitated by the sliding action of the third bearing members (210) and fourth bearing members (212) within the second channel member (204), enabling smooth movement of the second footrest element (206) into position. As the foot supporting member (200) reaches its fully extended position, the third spring ball plungers (214) and fourth spring ball plungers (216) disengage from the second channel member (204), allowing unrestricted movement. However, in Figure 10 when retracting the foot supporting member (200) to the closed position, inward force is applied, prompting the footrest element (206) to move closer to the footboard structure (16). The third bearing members (210) and fourth bearing members (212) slide in the opposite direction within the second channel member (204), guiding the foot supporting member (200) securely into place. Once fully retracted, the third spring ball plunger (214) and the fourth spring ball plunger (216) engage with the second channel member (204) again, securing the foot supporting member (200) in the closed position.

[0062] In an embodiment of the invention, the first foot supporting member (100) and the second foot supporting member (200) being positioned between the top structural member (82), the bottom structural member (84), the first side structural member (86), and the second side structural member (88).

[0063] One of the advantages of the invention one of the primary advantages is its enhanced adjustability. Unlike traditional footboards that provide fixed platforms for the rider's feet, the present invention features movable members that allow for precise positioning according to the rider's preference and comfort level.

[0064] Another advantage of the invention is that with the ability of the footboard structure to extend beyond its initial boundaries.

[0065] Yet an advantage of the invention, is to provide a foot supporting members that are securely retained in both extended and retracted positions, ensuring stability and safety for the rider.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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 vehicle (10) comprising:
a footboard structure (16) positioned between a handlebar (18) and a seat (20) in a vehicle length direction and below the seat (20) in a vehicle height direction, the footboard structure (16) being adapted to support at least a foot portion of a rider of the vehicle;
a first foot supporting member (100) positioned within the footboard structure (16), the first foot supporting member (100) being movable between a first retracted position and a first fully extended position, the first foot supporting member (100) being completely overlapped by the footboard structure (16) in the first retracted position, and the first foot supporting member (100) protruding beyond the footboard structure (16) in a first vehicle width direction (D1) in the first fully extended position; and
a first retaining member (102) for retaining the first foot supporting member (100) in
at the first retracted position, the first fully extended position and at least one first
position, the at least one first position being different from the first retracted position
and the first fully extended position.

2. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, comprising:
a second foot supporting member (200) positioned within the footboard structure (16), the second foot supporting member (200) being movable between a second retracted position and a second fully extended position, the second foot supporting member (200) being completely overlapped by the footboard structure (16) in the second retracted position and the second foot supporting member (200) protruding beyond the footboard structure (16) in a second vehicle width direction (D2) in the second fully extended position; and
a second retaining member (202) for retaining the second foot supporting member
(200) at the second retracted position, the second fully extended position and in at
least one second position, the at least one second position being different from the
second retracted position and the second fully extended position.

3. The vehicle as claimed in claim 2, wherein the footboard structure (16) comprises:
a top structural member (82) supports at least a foot portion of a rider of the vehicle,
a bottom structural member (84) spaced apart from the top structural member in a vehicle height direction;
a first side structural member (86) placed along a first side of the top structural member (82) and along a first side of the bottom structural member (84), the first side structural member (86) comprising a first opening (90) allowing the first foot supporting member (100) to be positioned at the first fully extended position or the at least one first position; and
a second side structural member (88) placed along a second side of the top structural member (82) and along a second side of the bottom structural member (84), the second side structural member (86) comprising a second opening (92) allowing the second foot supporting member (200) to be positioned at the second fully extended position or the at least one second position.

4. The vehicle as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first foot supporting member (100) and the second foot supporting member (200) being positioned between the top structural member (82), the bottom structural member (84), the first side structural member (86), and the second side structural member (88).

5. The vehicle as claimed in claim 3, wherein:
the first foot supporting member (100) being movable within a first channel member (104), the first channel member (104) being located proximate to the first side structural member (86) and between the top structural member (82) and the bottom structural member (84);
the second foot supporting member (200) being movable within a second channel member (204), the second channel member (204) being located proximate to the second side structural member (88) and between the top structural member (82) and the bottom structural member (84).

6. The vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein:
the first foot supporting member (100) comprises a first footrest element (106), a first strengthening member (108) attached to the first footrest element (106), a first bearing member (110) projecting from a first surface of the first footrest element (106), a second bearing member (112) projecting from a second surface of the first footrest element (106), the first bearing member (110) and the second bearing member (112) being slidably received by the first channel member (104);
the second foot supporting member (200) comprises a second footrest element (206), a second strengthening member (208) attached to the second footrest element (106), a third bearing member (210) projecting from a first surface of the second footrest element (106), a fourth bearing member (212) projecting from a second surface of the second footrest element (206), the third bearing member (210) and the fourth bearing member (212) being slidably received by the second channel member (204);
the first retaining member (102) comprises a first spring ball plunger (114) and a second spring ball plunger (116) co-operating with the first channel member (104) for retaining the first foot supporting member (100) in the at least one first position; and
the second retaining member (202) comprises a third spring ball plunger (214) and a fourth spring ball plunger (216) co-operating with the second channel member (204) for retaining the second foot supporting member (200) in the at least one second position.